If you’re looking for a dinner that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the answer. This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, ranch seasoning, and plenty of cheese, all baked into one bubbling casserole. It’s hearty, satisfying, and simple enough for weeknights while being indulgent enough for gatherings. Whether you serve it with a crisp side salad or enjoy it as a standalone meal, this casserole delivers comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines chicken, bacon, cheese, and ranch—the ultimate flavor combo.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved.
- Perfect for make-ahead meals and freezer storage.
- Simple ingredients come together in one easy bake.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and creamy casserole made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, pasta, and melted cheese. A family favorite comfort food dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in cooked pasta, shredded chicken, half the bacon, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- Can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) – a great way to use leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
Cooked bacon – adds smoky crunch and savory depth.
Pasta (penne, rotini, or shells) – the base that holds the casserole together.
Cream cheese – makes the sauce creamy and tangy.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt – adds richness and balances flavors.
Ranch seasoning mix – infuses the casserole with zesty, herby flavor.
Cheddar cheese – melts beautifully and adds sharpness.
Mozzarella cheese – creates a gooey, stretchy topping.
Milk – loosens the sauce for easy mixing.
Green onions or chives – for a fresh garnish.
Salt and black pepper – for seasoning balance.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and ranch seasoning. Heat over medium until smooth.
- Stir in half the cheddar and mozzarella until melted into a creamy sauce.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, bacon, and the sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with green onions or chives before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6–8 portions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
storage/reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze unbaked casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a quick and easy way to save time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well.
Can I lighten this recipe?
Yes, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
What cheese combination works best?
Cheddar adds sharpness while mozzarella gives gooey texture. Monterey Jack or Colby can also be used.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—broccoli, spinach, or peas make great additions.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your ranch seasoning is gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, replace pasta with cauliflower florets for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, smoky, and full of flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, versatile enough to customize, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a hearty, satisfying choice you’ll return to again and again.
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