Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth to any dinner table. This dish combines tender pasta, savory chicken, and crispy bacon all enveloped in a creamy ranch sauce. It’s perfect for family meals and gets dinner on the table quickly, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. With melted cheese bubbling on top, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to make, so you won’t spend all evening in the kitchen. Second, the flavors are mouthwatering; the combination of ranch seasoning, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon creates a taste that is both rich and satisfying. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have at home. It’s family-friendly and perfect for kids of all ages, keeping mealtime relaxing and enjoyable.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
Making this pasta bake is straightforward! You’ll be cooking your pasta, preparing a creamy sauce, and then combining everything in a baking dish. The process is easy and doesn’t require any advanced techniques. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time, with minimal cleanup afterward.
What You Need
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until well combined and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and half of both cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken bacon mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
This pasta bake is best served warm right out of the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also add some garlic bread to make it a cozy dinner. It’s great for a family gathering, potlucks, or just a comforting evening meal with your loved ones.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the pasta bake cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it tightly. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Recipe Tips
- Cook the pasta just until al dente; it will soften more while baking.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can substitute turkey or ham for the chicken if you prefer, or use a meat-free alternative.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangy, healthier alternative.
- Replace ranch seasoning with Italian seasoning for a different herb flavor.
- Add a layer of spinach or kale for more veggies.
- For a vegetarian option, leave out the bacon and chicken and load up on extra veggies.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat. This can save you time on busy nights.
Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pasta bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will keep the cheese melty and the pasta from getting too dry. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it may not heat evenly.
Can I substitute ranch seasoning?
Yes! You can use homemade ranch seasoning or another flavor, like Italian seasoning. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.
What are some sides to serve with this dish?
This pasta bake pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a tasty option to soak up that creamy sauce!
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) For garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until well combined and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and half of both cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
Assembly and Baking
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken bacon mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
