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Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Video Tutorial
ℹ️ Video Disclaimer: This video is embedded from YouTube and is not owned by us. All rights belong to the original creator. Watch on YouTube
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie works great)
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth
Add the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cooked pasta, green onions, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Mix until well combined
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly
Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving
Kitchen Tools
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pot for cooking pasta
Chef's Tips
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor
Cook pasta al dente since it will cook more in the oven
Reserve some bacon and green onions for topping
Let the casserole rest after baking for easier serving
🔧 Troubleshooting Tips
🔄 Recipe Variations
🥗 Healthy Alternatives
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad
Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
Great with garlic bread or dinner rolls
Add a side of fresh tomato slices
Serve with coleslaw for a complete meal
Nutrition Facts
🥗 Suitable Diets
🎨 Presentation Ideas
📦 Storage & Conservation
♻️ Leftover Ideas
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
FAQ
No, the chicken must be fully cooked before adding to the casserole. Use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or cook chicken breasts beforehand.
Yes! You can skip the pasta for a low-carb version, or substitute with cauliflower rice or extra vegetables. Adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes.
Absolutely! Assemble everything except the top cheese layer, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add cheese before baking and add 10 minutes to baking time.
You can make homemade ranch with buttermilk, mayo, and herbs, or use Italian dressing for a different flavor profile.
Yes! Freeze before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw overnight before baking. If freezing baked, reheat covered at 350°F for 30-40 minutes.
Add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, or mix in some buffalo sauce with the ranch dressing.
Definitely! Leftover turkey works great in this recipe, making it perfect for using up Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers.
Make sure to drain the pasta very well and don't add too much dressing. If it's still watery, bake uncovered for an extra 10 minutes to evaporate moisture.