Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Casserole Recipe
This chicken bacon ranch pasta is a family favorite pasta bake with an irresistible combination of bacon and a creamy ranch sauce, and best of all, it cooks in just 30 minutes!
Servings: 6
Calories: 700kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dried rotini pasta or penne
- 6 slices bacon cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups heavy cream or half and half
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing seasoning mix 2 Tablespoons
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon, stirring often until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set on paper towels. Carefully drain the grease and wipe clean with paper towels.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly, until lightly browned. Add the cream and ranch seasoning and whisk until simmering and slightly thickened.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted, then stir in the chicken and around half of the bacon.
- Add the pasta to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, then pour the sauce and chicken over the top and stir to combine. Press into an even layer.
- Top with the mozzarella cheese and the remaining bacon.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the cheese topping is melted. Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions and serve.
Notes
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, but leave off the topping, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake the pasta, remove the dish from the refrigerator around 30 minutes before baking. Stir in around ¼ cup of cream, then add the topping and bake. You will need around 5 extra minutes of cooking time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat leftovers in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 700kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 41g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g