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Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This creamy, cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch flavors, it is a family favorite that is hearty and satisfying.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 8-10 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini), cooked al dente
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain well and set aside.
  3. Cook bacon in a large skillet until crispy, remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Add cooked pasta, diced chicken, most of the crumbled bacon, and 1½ cups of cheddar cheese to the bowl and stir until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with reserved bacon crumbles and chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference. Always soften cream cheese completely before mixing. Drain pasta thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Let the casserole rest after baking for easier serving.