Description
If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor — the perfect blend of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and that irresistible ranch twist everyone loves. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy one-pan pasta dish is pure happiness in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly.
Step 2: Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until smooth.
Step 3: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Step 4: Add the ranch dressing, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Step 7: Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce.
Step 8: Stir everything together, coating the pasta evenly in the cheesy ranch sauce.
Step 9: Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing all flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 10: Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or bacon bits if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is incredibly versatile and satisfying. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a delicious and easy meal. The combination of creamy ranch, savory bacon, and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s customizable – feel free to add your favorite veggies or cheese!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
- Cook bacon in the oven for less mess and crispy results.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
- Protein: 30-35g per serving
- Sodium: 800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy sauce, combined with the savory goodness of bacon and chicken, creates a truly unforgettable meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute the pasta with your favorite type. Penne, rotini, or farfalle work particularly well. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
- Is it possible to make this recipe healthier?
- Absolutely! Use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cream cheese, and turkey bacon to make it a bit lighter. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrients.
- Can I freeze this pasta dish?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. Keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing.
- What other ingredients can I add to this pasta?
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. Some great additions include mushrooms, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
