Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Description

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, cheesy comfort meal packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored sauce. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight! Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

8 oz penne or rotini pasta
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Bacon

In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in cooked chicken and sauté for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Ranch Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and milk, then whisk in ranch seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked pasta and bacon to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Simmer for 2 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh side salad!

Serving Suggestions

With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
With a Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
Make it a Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 580
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 2g

Tips & Variations

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon.
Extra Flavor: Add chopped green onions or sun-dried tomatoes.
Spicier Kick: Mix in hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ranch seasoning.

Saving & Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of milk.
Reheating: Warm on low heat, adding extra milk or broth for creaminess.