This chicken bacon ranch casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort to your table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a simple and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Imagine tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce all baked together in one dish. This recipe is great for meal prep or a quick family dinner, and it offers two delicious variations to keep things exciting!
Flavorful Combination of Ingredients
This chicken bacon ranch casserole stands out for its delightful blend of flavors. Each bite offers a harmonious mix of tender chicken and crispy bacon that creates a satisfying texture.
The inclusion of ranch seasoning brings a creamy, tangy element to the dish, enhancing its overall taste. Add in a medley of colorful vegetables, and you have a meal that not only tastes great but also looks inviting on the table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This casserole is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, providing a hearty meal in just 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s comforting, filling, and loved by both kids and adults alike.
Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a cozy night in, this dish is versatile enough to shine in any setting. Pair it with a simple side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Easy Preparation Steps
Making this chicken bacon ranch casserole is straightforward. First, gather your ingredients: shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, cooked pasta, cheese, and sour cream.
In a large bowl, mix everything together until well combined, then transfer it to a greased baking dish. Top with cheese and bake until golden and bubbling. It’s as simple as that!
Customizable and Adaptable
This recipe is not just quick; it’s also customizable. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use a different type of cheese for added variety.
If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This flexibility allows every cook to make this dish their own, catering to personal tastes and preferences.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
Once baked to perfection, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. For an eye-catching presentation, garnish with freshly chopped green onions. This touch adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serving it in a rustic baking dish enhances its homey feel. Pair it with slices of crusty bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce, making every bite a delight.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This casserole serves six, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch. With approximately 450 calories per serving, it’s a hearty dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Loaded with protein from the chicken and bacon, it provides a good balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, ensuring a well-rounded meal that satisfies. This dish proves that comfort food can be both tasty and nourishing.
Two Easy Ways to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
This casserole features juicy chicken and crispy bacon combined with ranch seasoning, creamy cheese, and vegetables, all baked together to create a rich and savory dish that’s sure to please.
With its creamy texture and savory taste, this casserole is a perfect blend of flavors that can satisfy any craving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 package ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, cooked pasta, sour cream, and mixed vegetables if using. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
