This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck dish, this casserole is guaranteed to be a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
- Full of Flavor – Classic ranch seasoning pairs perfectly with chicken and bacon.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Customizable – Easily add veggies or switch up the pasta.
- Kid-Friendly – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors kids love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and diced)
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)
- Ranch dressing or ranch seasoning mix
- Cream cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooked crispy bacon (chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Heavy cream or milk
- Olive oil or butter
- Green onions (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce – In a large skillet, melt cream cheese with heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in ranch dressing (or seasoning), garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.
- Combine ingredients – Add cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta to the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole – Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and extra bacon bits before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Version – Swap pasta for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Extra Veggies – Add broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick – Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Buffalo Ranch Style – Add a splash of buffalo sauce for extra heat.
- Different Cheeses – Try pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best for holding the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance.
Do I have to use ranch dressing?
You can use ranch seasoning mixed with cream cheese and milk for a less creamy alternative.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cheese, and add more veggies.
Can I add a crunchy topping?
Yes! Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement it well.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes! Turkey bacon is a leaner option and works great in this recipe.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your ranch dressing is gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a make-ahead meal, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal!
PrintChicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, pasta, and a creamy ranch-flavored sauce. It’s a quick and easy crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great!)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and half of the bacon to the bowl with the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and remaining bacon over the top.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley (if using), and serve hot!
Notes
- Want a low-carb version? Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
- Spice it up! Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make ahead: Assemble everything and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.