Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up that brings together three beloved flavors in one deliciously satisfying dish. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing with pasta and cheese for a meal that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
I developed this recipe on a cold winter evening when I needed something hearty that would please everyone at the table. The combination of familiar flavors with the convenience of a one-dish meal makes this casserole perfect for busy weeknights, yet special enough for weekend gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
- Perfect make-ahead option that reheats beautifully
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes
- Kid-approved flavor combination that adults love too
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup creamy ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 lb frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1-3 teaspoons ranch seasoning powder for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- For broccoli: bring a pot of water to boil, add broccoli florets and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain well. For spinach: thaw completely and squeeze out as much water as possible using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, minced garlic, ranch dressing, and your chosen vegetable. Add half of both the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Stir everything together until well coated.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top for that perfect golden finish.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. The casserole should be heated through completely.
- Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Dish up while hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your family!
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on busy weeknights.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Make your own ranch seasoning with dried herbs if you prefer to avoid store-bought dressing.
- For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter version.
- Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, add some garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
If you’re serving this for a gathering, consider a veggie tray with ranch dip and some pickled vegetables to complement the flavors in the casserole.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The casserole is done when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted completely.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
- This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any medium-sized pasta shape works well. Try bowties, shells, or even macaroni.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free.
Can I prepare this without pre-cooking the chicken?
I recommend using pre-cooked chicken for food safety and to ensure even cooking. Raw chicken would release too much moisture during baking.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute with a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
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