Description: Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delightful, low-carb dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is comfort food without the guilt. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, it’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb cooked chicken, cubed or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 lb fresh broccoli, steamed and drained (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- ½ tbsp garlic powder
- ½ tbsp dried dill weed (or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ¼ cup + 2 tbsp bacon crumbles (cooked until crispy)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz sour cream
- 4 oz mayonnaise
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re prepping ahead, you can keep the casserole in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more!
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, dried minced onion, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried dill weed (or fresh dill), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This forms the base of your flavorful ranch dressing.
Step 3: Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, ¾ of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving the rest for topping), and ¼ cup of the bacon crumbles to the cream cheese mixture. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Then, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of bacon crumbles over the cheese. This adds a final touch of smoky flavor and a nice visual appeal.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a guaranteed winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious! The combination of creamy ranch flavors, savory chicken, crisp broccoli, and smoky bacon is a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe to use different vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the broccoli for cauliflower, spinach, or even bell peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses.
Another reason to love this casserole is that it’s incredibly easy to make. It requires minimal prep time and only a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Finally, this casserole is a fantastic option for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, and it’s low in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and guilt-free meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pair with steamed green beans or asparagus for an extra serving of vegetables.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips:
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked bacon.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you don’t have dried dill weed, you can use fresh dill. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill for every ½ teaspoon of dried dill weed.
- To prevent the cheese from burning, you can cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: Approximately 516
- Protein: Approximately 36 grams
- Net Carbs: Approximately 4 grams
- Fat: Approximately 39 grams
Conclusion:
This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for a potluck, this casserole is a winner. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness without the guilt! This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it a standout dish. Experiment with variations to suit your taste and dietary needs, and enjoy the process of creating a meal that nourishes and delights.
Question and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
A1: Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can! You can prepare the casserole up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?
A3: Definitely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses. Each cheese will add its unique flavor profile to the casserole.
Q4: Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
A4: Yes! If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture. You can also use a spicy cheddar cheese or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Q5: What if I don’t have dried dill weed?
A5: If you don’t have dried dill weed, you can use fresh dill. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill for every ½ teaspoon of dried dill weed. Fresh dill will add a bright, fresh flavor to the casserole.
