Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
6 people
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Calories
646 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe blends cooked penne pasta with shredded chicken and a creamy mixture including Alfredo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing. The mixture is spread in a baking dish, topped with crispy cooked bacon and shredded mozzarella cheese, then baked at 350°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This casserole delivers a rich, flavorful combination of creamy and smoky elements.
The texture balances tender pasta coated in a smooth, cheesy sauce with the added crunch and salty bite from cooked bacon. The baking process melds the ingredients and melts the cheeses thoroughly for a comforting, cohesive dish.
This pasta bake can be served as a main course accompanied by a salad, or as a side to complement grilled or roasted meats. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a fresh herbal note and color contrast.
Leftovers keep well chilled for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Making sure to stir the chicken mixture well to melt the cream cheese before baking helps distribute flavors evenly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta cooked
- 2½ cups chicken shredded, cooked
- 15 ounces Alfredo sauce 1 jar
- 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature and cubed, ½ brick
- ½ cup ranch dressing store-bought or homemade
- 6 lices Bacon chopped, cooked
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese freshly shredded
- parsley optional, for garnish, fresh
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with oil or nonstick spray. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the chopped bacon on top of the mixture.
- Next, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use any medium-sized pasta such as penne or rigatoni for best results.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used to save preparation time.
- Thoroughly stir the chicken mixture to fully melt the cream cheese before baking to ensure even texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 646 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 646kcal | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 29g | 10% |
| Protein | 34g | 68% |
| Fat | 43g | 66% |
| Saturated Fat | 18g | 90% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10g | 59% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Trans Fat | 0.01g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 152mg | 51% |
| Sodium | 1129mg | 47% |
| Potassium | 273mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 541IU | 11% |
| Calcium | 226mg | 23% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.