CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE

Introduction:
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that the whole family will love, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the perfect recipe to try. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch dressing sauce to create a comforting and satisfying casserole. With its blend of savory ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 strips)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked pasta.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well-combined.
4. Pour the ranch mixture over the chicken, bacon, and pasta mixture, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir to incorporate.
6. Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serve this casserole as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply place in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
• If you prefer, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and bacon, and instead add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a veggie-packed casserole.
• Cheese Swap: Use different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ranch mixture for a spicy twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to create a low-carb, keto-friendly version of this dish.

FAQ:

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works great for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day before and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and cook as directed.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble it, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

4. What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread to complete the meal.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, indulgent, and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s sure to be a hit!