There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy pasta bake to bring comfort to the dinner table. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch-infused sauce for a dish that’s irresistibly flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that delivers both convenience and indulgence. The best part? It comes together in under an hour, with minimal prep and maximum deliciousness!
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress guests, this pasta bake is a guaranteed hit. The combination of smoky bacon, savory chicken, and tangy ranch creates a harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake Recip
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
For the Pasta & Proteins:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken saves time!)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried dill (optional but adds great flavor)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Extra crumbled bacon
- Sliced green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux (this thickens the sauce).
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the ranch dressing, parsley, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Combine Everything:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and creamy ranch sauce.
- Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese and Parmesan.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden-brown top, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, extra bacon, or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✅ Easy & Quick – Uses simple ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
✅ Customizable – Add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon and tender chicken. It’s a versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead meal. The creamy ranch sauce adds a tangy twist that sets it apart from traditional pasta bakes, making it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal, and watch it disappear in no time! Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to earn rave reviews.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out—happy cooking! 😊🍝🧀