Chicken-Bacon-Ranch Pasta Bake
Indulge in this creamy, comforting Chicken-Bacon-Ranch Pasta Bake, a symphony of flavors that combines tender pasta, smoky bacon, succulent chicken, and a tangy ranch sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Nutrition
-
Carbohydrate
46 g
-
Cholesterol
163 mg
-
Fiber
2 g
-
Protein
41 g
-
Saturated Fat
26 g
-
Sodium
868 mg
-
Sugar
5 g
-
Fat
49 g
-
Unsaturated Fat
0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. (5 minutes)
02
Step
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 12 minutes). Drain well.
03
Step
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cubed cream cheese and ranch dressing mix. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. (5 minutes)
04
Step
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce has thickened slightly (about 5-10 minutes). Crumble 6 slices of the cooked bacon into the sauce and stir to combine.
05
Step
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta with the shredded or diced chicken. Pour the creamy bacon-ranch sauce over the pasta and chicken, and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. (5 minutes)
06
Step
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar Jack cheese evenly over the top. Crumble the remaining 2 slices of bacon over the cheese. (2 minutes)
07
Step
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the ranch dressing mix.
To prevent the pasta from sticking together after draining, toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil.
Feel free to substitute other types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, based on your preference.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
RECIPE REVIEWS
Avarage Rating:
4.7/ 5 ( 57 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (8)
Gillian Harvey
Jun 30, 2025So easy to make and perfect for a busy weeknight. I'll definitely be making this again.
Hailey Walsh
Apr 27, 2025I think next time I might try adding a layer of breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
Marcelo Weissnatstiedemann
Apr 13, 2025My kids are picky eaters, but they devoured this! A definite win!
Annabelle Leannon
Jan 22, 2025I added some sauteed mushrooms and onions to the sauce, and it turned out amazing!
Eileen Raynor
Sep 5, 2024I didn't have Monterey Jack cheese, so I used provolone. It was still delicious!
Bradley Mckenzie
Jan 25, 2024I used gluten-free pasta, and it worked perfectly. A great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Krista Mcclure
Jan 2, 2024The ranch flavor is so good! This is a great twist on a classic pasta bake.
Anjali Mueller
Nov 22, 2023This recipe was a huge hit with my family! Everyone loved the creamy sauce and the crispy bacon.