Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the perfect choice. With a creamy combination of penne pasta, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a zesty ranch flavor, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta, cooked and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ounce packet Ranch seasoning
• 2 cups shredded chicken, cooked
• 22 ounce jar homestyle Alfredo sauce
• 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated (divided)
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, Ranch seasoning, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray, then pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the foil from the dish, then sprinkle the remaining grated mozzarella cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions evenly over the top.
6. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
8. Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole hot, and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
• Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

Following these tips will keep your Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole tasting fresh and delicious, whether you’re serving it right away or enjoying leftovers later!

Variations

Protein Variations

• Turkey Bacon Swap: Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option with the same crispy texture.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy prep.
• Ground Chicken or Turkey: Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground chicken or turkey for a different texture.

Cheese Variations

• Cheddar Twist: Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a bolder flavor.
• Three-Cheese Mix: Combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
• Spicy Pepper Jack: Add Pepper Jack cheese for a slight kick.

Sauce Variations

• Buffalo Ranch Flavor: Mix ¼ cup buffalo sauce into the Alfredo mixture for a spicy twist.
• BBQ Ranch: Swap Alfredo sauce for BBQ sauce to create a smoky, tangy flavor.
• Extra Creamy: Add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese for a richer, silkier sauce.

Vegetable Additions

• Broccoli Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
• Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch.
• Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach before baking for a healthier touch.

Pasta Alternatives

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for dietary needs.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap penne for whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower florets instead of pasta.

These variations allow you to customize the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole to fit your taste preferences while keeping it delicious and satisfying!

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I use store-bought pre-cooked bacon?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked bacon saves time and still adds great flavor. Just chop and sprinkle it on top before baking.

3. What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?
You can substitute Alfredo sauce with homemade white sauce, cream cheese mixed with milk, or even a blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or mix in some hot sauce like buffalo or sriracha for a spicy kick.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

6. What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Penne is a great choice because it holds the sauce well, but you can also use rotini, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta.

7. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
To keep it creamy, cover with foil while baking, and avoid overbaking. You can also stir in extra Alfredo sauce or a splash of milk before baking.

8. Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes! Substitute the pasta with roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option.

9. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

10. What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?
Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or steamed green beans for a well-balanced meal.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together the rich flavors of bacon, chicken, and ranch seasoning in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the comforting flavors and watch it disappear in no time!

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