Description
The ultimate comfort dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this casserole combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch dressing in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: ½ cup chopped broccoli or spinach
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken and bacon: Dice cooked chicken and crumble crispy bacon. Set aside.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Mix until evenly coated.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella, ½ cup of cheddar, and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Assemble: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses and sprinkle with optional veggies or breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese for a creamier, gooier casserole.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook your pasta before baking. It will absorb the sauce while baking, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Customize with Veggies: Adding broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers not only boosts the nutritional value but also balances the richness of the dish with fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 MIN
- Cook Time: 25 MIN