Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne is what I pull out when my family needs the ultimate comfort meal all in one pan. Creamy Alfredo sauce envelopes tender penne, juicy chicken, smoky bacon and melty cheese with the irresistible tang of ranch bringing it all together. It is a dinner that always disappears fast, especially on chilly nights.

My household goes wild for this one and even my pickiest eater asks for seconds. I love dropping it off to friends who need a little extra warmth and comfort too.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: the perfect shape for catching sauce and holding everything together choose high quality bronze cut for best texture
• Cooked chicken breast: adds hearty protein and soaks up flavors a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra tenderness
• Alfredo sauce: made from scratch for pure creamy goodness use fresh cream cheese and real butter for richness
• Ranch dressing: brings signature tang pick a thick and flavorful brand for the best taste
• Bacon: crisps up and adds smoky savory depth use thick cut bacon for plenty of texture
• Mozzarella cheese: creates that stretchy gooey cheesy topping always grate your own for best melt
• Parmesan cheese: in the sauce for deep nutty flavor go for real Parmigiano Reggiano when possible
• Fresh chopped parsley: finishes with a burst of freshness and color optional but highly recommended

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Alfredo Base:

Whisk together flour, heavy cream and milk in a bowl until completely smooth. In a saucepan melt butter and cream cheese over medium low heat stirring constantly until blended. Pour in the flour mixture slowly while continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Pull off the heat, add Parmesan and garlic powder then stir until creamy and lump free.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until just barely al dente. This keeps it from getting mushy when baked. Drain and return to the pot.

Mix and Fill:

Add shredded or chopped cooked chicken to the pasta and pour over all the Alfredo sauce. Drizzle in the ranch dressing. Gently fold together until everything is evenly combined but do not overmix so the pasta stays intact. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish, smoothing out to an even layer.

Top and Bake:

Scatter the cooked bacon and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, golden and the whole dish is bubbling at the edges.

Rest and Serve:

Let the hot pan rest for at least 5 minutes before serving so everything can set. Top each bowl with fresh parsley and dig in while still warm.

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I think bacon makes everything better but the best part for me is how even leftovers are crave worthy. The Alfredo sauce stays luscious and does not dry out and stirring bacon through every layer makes it extra special. My kids’ laughter around the table makes it taste even better.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. This pasta will keep well in the fridge for up to three days and the flavors deepen as it sits. To freeze, cut portions and arrange in a freezer safe dish with a layer of plastic wrap pressed onto the top to prevent freezer burn. Reheat straight from the fridge in the microwave or the oven covered with foil at low heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

No mozzarella in the fridge use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a slightly different but just as gooey result. You can swap ranch for a creamy Caesar or garlic herb dressing for a new spin. Turkey bacon or even diced ham work if bacon is not on hand. Any sturdy short pasta shape such as rigatoni or ziti can step in for penne.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve big cozy spoonfuls on their own or round out the meal with garlic bread or a bright green salad. For little ones I sometimes add steamed broccoli or peas to the mix for a veggie boost. This also pairs well with roasted Brussels sprouts or a tangy cucumber tomato side salad.

Cultural Context

Creamy baked pasta bakes show up in home kitchens everywhere but this chicken bacon ranch combo puts an American comfort twist on the Italian classic. It celebrates the love of cheesy casseroles and crowd pleasing flavors you find at potlucks and family tables across the US. Bringing ranch into baked pasta really takes the comfort to new heights.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this pasta?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. It makes preparation quicker and the flavor is delicious.

→ What type of cheese is best in this dish?

Mozzarella provides a gooey, cheesy texture, while Parmesan adds savory depth to the creamy sauce.

→ Is it possible to prepare in advance?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Can I substitute ranch dressing with another ingredient?

For a different flavor, try using Caesar or garlic dressing, though the ranch adds a signature tang.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Garlic breadsticks, Gorgonzola garlic bread, or a simple green salad all make great accompaniments.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat until hot throughout.