This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Combining creamy Alfredo sauce, tangy ranch dressing, and savory bacon bits, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
- 1 container of Alfredo sauce (15 oz)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1-2 cups bacon bits (use more if you have enough)
- Penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (enough to cover the top)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing.
- Add the cooked chicken and bacon bits to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish.
- Cover the top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
- Creamy and Savory: The combination of Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing creates a rich and flavorful base.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Hearty: Loaded with chicken and bacon, this dish is filling and satisfying.
- Cheesy: Topped with melted mozzarella, it’s a cheese lover’s dream.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add more bacon or chicken as desired.
- Comfort Food: Warm and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in.
- Versatile: Great for dinner parties or potlucks.
- Leftovers: Makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
- Affordable: Uses common ingredients that are easy to find.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Bacon: Cook your own bacon for extra flavor, or use store-bought bacon bits for convenience.
- Cheese: Feel free to add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy.
- Seasoning: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Veggies: Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
How to Store
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if the pasta seems dry.
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Freeze: You can freeze the pasta bake in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
