The Dreamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe You Need

Comfort and convenience collide in this mouthwatering chicken bacon ranch casserole that promises to become your new weeknight favorite.

Layers of tender chicken meld perfectly with crispy bacon bits and creamy ranch seasoning.

Cheesy goodness brings a rich texture that makes every bite irresistible.

Home cooks can whip up this simple dish in less than an hour with minimal prep work.

Surprising flavors and easy preparation make this recipe a winner for busy households.

Hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that fills hungry bellies and delights taste buds.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Crowd Pleaser

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make this casserole a go-to recipe for busy households looking for a quick and nutritious dinner.
• Customize with Ease: Versatile recipe allows swapping ingredients like different proteins, vegetables, or cheese to match your family's taste preferences and dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Reduces kitchen cleanup with a single baking dish, saving time and effort while delivering maximum flavor and nutrition.

What Goes into Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

• Chicken: Tender and juicy protein that forms the base of the casserole.
• Bacon: Crispy and flavorful meat that adds a smoky crunch to the dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: Creamy and sharp cheese that melts beautifully and provides rich flavor.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps develop the base of the sauce.

• Pasta: Provides a hearty base for the casserole.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh green vegetable that adds nutrition and texture.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dill Weed, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that create depth and savory notes in the casserole.

• Flour: Helps create a thick and creamy sauce.

• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps create the sauce.

• Chives: Fresh herb that provides a light, oniony finish to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps sauté aromatics and adds a subtle flavor.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon

Fry bacon in a skillet until it becomes golden and crispy.

Remove from pan and let it drain on paper towels.

Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Step 2: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Boil pasta in salted water following package directions.

During the last two minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.

Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.

Step 3: Saute Aromatic Base

Heat a combination of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and translucent.

Step 4: Create Creamy Ranch Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the skillet and cook for one minute.

Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously.

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dill weed
• Salt
• Black pepper

Simmer the sauce until it thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 5: Combine Casserole Ingredients

• Cooked chicken
• Half of the cheddar cheese
• Prepared pasta
• Broccoli

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

Step 6: Add Final Toppings

Sprinkle remaining cheese and crumbled bacon over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and cheese is melted.

Garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

Ranch Casserole Tips You’ll Love

• Ensure bacon is thoroughly cooked and well-drained to prevent excess grease in the casserole.
• Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.
• Whisk chicken broth and milk gradually to create a smooth, lump-free sauce without clumping.
• Sprinkle cheese in two layers for maximum flavor distribution and a beautiful golden-brown top.
• Experiment with fresh chives or parsley for an extra burst of fresh flavor and visual appeal.

Ways to Remix Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

• Gluten-Free Ranch Chicken Casserole: Replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free pasta and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Substitute pasta with riced cauliflower. Keep all other ingredients the same for a keto-friendly option.
• Vegetarian Ranch Bake: Replace chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives or extra firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Mediterranean Herb Transformation: Swap ranch seasonings with oregano, basil, and thyme. Add sun-dried tomatoes and replace cheddar with feta cheese for a Mediterranean profile.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Serving Suggestions

• Family Dinner Delight: Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal that fills hungry tummies.
• Ranch Party Platter: Create a fun buffet-style spread by adding extra ranch dressing, sliced green onions, and additional crispy bacon bits on the side for customizing.
• Healthy Boost Option: Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to increase nutritional value and add more vibrant colors to the plate.
• Leftover Magic: Pack cold portions for lunch the next day or reheat gently in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious.

How to Keep Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Fresh

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Pack casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it completely before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

• What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

Create a homemade ranch blend using dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will give you a similar flavor profile to traditional ranch seasoning.

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Definitely! Turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef work well as protein alternatives in this casserole.

Mammoth Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 47 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken bacon ranch casserole promises comfort and flavor in every delightful bite. Creamy layers blend perfectly, bringing zesty ranch and crispy bacon together for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast
• 6 slices bacon

Pasta and Vegetable Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 pound (454 grams) fresh broccoli, chopped into florets
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh chives, for serving

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Instructions

1. Crisp bacon in a skillet until golden brown, then drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
2. Boil pasta in salted water, adding broccoli during the final 2 minutes of cooking. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour into the skillet, stirring constantly for 60 seconds to create a smooth roux. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Fold shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, cooked pasta, and broccoli into the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese and crumbled bacon over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes until cheese is melted and edges are golden and bubbling.
10. Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving.

Notes

• Enhance bacon crispiness by using thick-cut bacon and patting dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
• Prevent broccoli from becoming mushy by blanching briefly and immediately transferring to ice water to maintain bright green color and crisp texture.
• Customize protein options by substituting chicken with turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or plant-based alternatives for different dietary preferences.
• Reduce calories by using low-fat milk, Greek yogurt instead of cream, and part-skim cheese without compromising the rich, creamy flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 390 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg