Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that the whole family will love, look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, this dish is a surefire way to satisfy those comfort food cravings with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Imagine the bubbling golden goodness straight out of the oven, enticing everyone with its irresistible aroma. This casserole has a magical way of getting even the pickiest eaters excited for seconds and leftovers. The combination of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese is a match made in culinary heaven that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, whether you’re hosting a busy holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy weeknight meal, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is your answer. From its smoky bacon to the creamy ranch flavors, every bite is a delight. Make sure to save some for later because, trust me, the leftovers are just as delicious, if not even better the next day. Get ready to indulge in this Midwest-inspired classic that will have your taste buds singing!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory goodness for maximum flavor
• Smoky bacon adds a delicious contrast to the creamy layers
• Leftovers taste even richer on day two, making it a great make-ahead dish
• Easily customizable with lighter ingredients like light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey bacon

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser for all taste preferences.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers comfort food with minimal effort but maximum flavor, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Family Favorite: Loved by picky eaters, this casserole is a hit with the whole family, and the irresistible aromas will have everyone ready to dig in before it even hits the table.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with different pasta shapes, adjust the bacon quantity, or opt for lighter ingredients like turkey bacon, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Leftovers Love: Tastes even richer on day two, making it perfect for meal prep and easy grab-and-go lunches. A great option for those who enjoy leftovers that taste as good as the first serving.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake just before serving, making it a convenient option for planning meals in advance.
• Pairing Possibilities: While delicious on its own, you can pair this casserole with a simple green salad, roasted broccoli, warm crusty bread, or fresh chopped tomatoes for a well-rounded meal experience.
• Comfort Food Classic: The classic combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning is a timeless favorite that brings a cozy, home-cooked feel to your dinner table, perfect for any season.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Main Components

• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 (15 ounce) jar homestyle Alfredo sauce
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, preferably rotisserie
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup sour cream

Pro Tips for Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

For the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, consider using rotini or fusilli pasta if you don’t have penne for a similar sauce-catching effect. Utilize a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt as a substitute for ranch seasoning mix if needed. To lighten up the dish, you can opt for using half the amount of bacon or switch to turkey bacon.

When preparing the casserole, using rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken will save you time and ensure a tender texture. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it up to a day before baking it just before serving. For the best results, cool the casserole completely before storing any leftovers in an airtight container and reheating them in the oven. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey bacon as substitutes.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

Mix cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, Alfredo sauce, cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese in a large bowl until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

Evenly spread the prepared mixture in the greased baking dish, making sure to reach the edges.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Place aluminum foil over the dish and bake on the center rack for 25 minutes.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Continue Baking

Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to set.

Storage Tips

After enjoying the delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, ensure it is cooled completely before storing. Cover the casserole dish with foil or transfer leftovers into airtight containers. Refrigerate the casserole, and it will keep well for up to three days. The flavors actually intensify, making it even tastier on the second day. When reheating, cover the dish loosely with foil and warm it in an oven preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit until hot and bubbly. Portioning the leftovers into containers makes for convenient grab-and-go lunches.

For those looking to make variations to the recipe, know that most short pasta shapes can be used in place of penne. Rotini, rigatoni, or ziti are great alternatives that hold the creamy sauce well. Additionally, if you run out of ranch seasoning mix, you can create a substitute blend using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt. For a lighter version of the casserole, consider using half the amount of bacon or substituting with turkey bacon. Pair this delicious casserole with a simple green salad, roasted broccoli, or warm crusty bread to balance out the richness of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have penne pasta, feel free to use other short pasta shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or ziti. These options will still hold the sauce nicely and provide a similar texture.

For a lighter version of the casserole, you can opt for light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. If you prefer a healthier protein option, turkey bacon can be substituted for regular bacon.

If you run out of ranch seasoning mix, you can create your own blend using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt. This homemade mix will still provide the dish with a flavorful ranch taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, try layering it between slices of toasted garlic bread to create a savory casserole sandwich. This unique presentation adds a satisfying crunch and an extra depth of flavor to each bite. Pair it with a side of crispy sweet potato fries for a deliciously indulgent meal that will surely impress your guests.

You can also transform this casserole into individual portions by spooning the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or zucchinis before baking. The roasted veggies will infuse the dish with additional flavor while providing a colorful and eye-catching presentation. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lighter and more elegant twist on this comforting classic.

FAQs for Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or ziti works well and holds the sauce nicely.

Can I substitute rotisserie chicken with another type of cooked chicken?

Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken ensures a tender texture and saves time.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake just before serving.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Cool completely and store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

As you savor the delightful flavors of this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, let its creamy, cheesy goodness wrap you in comfort and warmth. The perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and zesty ranch seasoning invites you to indulge in a truly satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation.

Remember, the beauty of this dish lies not only in its immediate appeal but also in its ability to bring joy for days to come. With each reheated serving, the flavors meld even further, creating an even richer experience. So, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring the last delicious bite from a convenient leftover container, let the essence of Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole continue to delight your taste buds and nourish your soul.

Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory goodness, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a crowd-pleasing weeknight wonder that your family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 min

Cook Time45 min

Total Time65 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (One 9×13-inch pan)

Ingredients

Main Components

• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 (15 ounce) jar homestyle Alfredo sauce
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, preferably rotisserie
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Combine Main Ingredients: Mix cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, Alfredo sauce, cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese in a large bowl until well combined.
3. Assemble Casserole: Evenly spread the prepared mixture in the greased baking dish, making sure to reach the edges.
4. Bake Covered: Place aluminum foil over the dish and bake on the center rack for 25 minutes.
5. Add Toppings and Continue Baking: Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
6. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to set.