Description

This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-infused cheese sauce—all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite, this casserole is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make ahead.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta & Proteins

12 ounces penne pasta (or other short pasta)
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Sauce & Cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For Serving (Optional)

Chopped fresh parsley
Additional grated Parmesan

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Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon and Chicken: While the pasta cooks, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and crumble once cooled. If not using precooked chicken, cook and dice chicken breasts or use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Make the Ranch Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Stir in ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Once combined, add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon (reserve some bacon for topping). Pour the creamy ranch sauce over and mix well. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with reserved bacon and extra cheese if desired.
Bake the Pasta: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Garnish and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Swap penne for rotini, ziti, or rigatoni if preferred.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavorful shortcut.
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition.
The bake can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 630
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 1210mg
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 37g
Cholesterol: 115mg