Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups cooked chicken breasts, cubed or shredded
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, corn, Alfredo sauce, ranch seasoning mix, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, cook the penne pasta to al dente according to package directions, drain, and set aside. While the pasta cooks, prepare your proteins: cube or shred two cups of cooked chicken breast and crumble one cup of cooked bacon. In an extra-large mixing bowl, combine the warm pasta, chicken, bacon, corn, Alfredo sauce, and the entire packet of ranch seasoning. Stir thoroughly to ensure every component is coated in the creamy, seasoned sauce. Next, fold in one cup of mozzarella and half a cup of cheddar cheese (this is the “half” mentioned in the original directions), reserving the rest for the top.
Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Transfer the mixed pasta into the dish, spreading it into an even layer. Evenly sprinkle the reserved cheeses over the entire surface. Place the dish on the center rack of your preheated 375°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. For a golden-brown top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty pasta bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a vegetable-forward side, consider simple steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or asparagus.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook pasta and proteins, mix everything with sauce and seasoning in a bowl, transfer to a dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce? A homemade white sauce (béchamel) seasoned with garlic and parmesan works well. For a lighter version, try a creamy ranch dressing mixed with a bit of broth.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Rigatoni, fusilli, or shells are excellent choices as their shapes hold sauce well. Avoid very thin pasta like angel hair.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warm throughout.
Is there a way to make this spicier? Definitely. Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture, or use a pepper jack cheese in place of some of the cheddar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta only to al dente, as it will continue to soften and absorb sauce in the oven.
- Not Greasing the Dish: Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Mixing very cold chicken or sauce with hot pasta can make the sauce seize up. Let refrigerated ingredients come to room temperature first.
- Skipping the Ranch Seasoning: This packet is crucial for the signature flavor. Don’t substitute with just ranch dressing.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining beloved flavors into a simple, one-dish wonder. It’s reliably delicious, endlessly customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and create a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.