Description
Hearty chicken bacon ranch casserole brings comfort to dinner tables with creamy, savory layers of goodness. Cheesy, crispy bacon and tender chicken combine in a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
Cheese Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 ounces/454 grams) rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F, preparing a welcoming environment for the casserole.
- Prepare pasta according to package guidance, ensuring al dente texture, then drain and set aside for later incorporation.
- In a spacious skillet, warm olive oil and introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet and sprinkle ranch dressing mix, whisking thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy base.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and develops a rich consistency.
- Transfer the prepared sauce to a generous mixing bowl, combining it with perfectly cooked pasta, tender shredded chicken, crispy crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheese blend.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Grease a baking dish and carefully transfer the combined ingredients, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Generously sprinkle the remaining cheese across the top, creating a golden, melty blanket.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece.
- Once removed from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant, herbaceous touch.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly before serving, letting the flavors meld and intensify.
Notes
- Choose low-sodium ranch mix to control salt levels and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter, lower-calorie alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Experiment with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring the same delicious flavor profile.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost nutritional value and create a more balanced one-pan meal without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 25 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg