Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2-1/3 box of small shells (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 can of Alfredo sauce (e.g., Bertolli)
- 1/2-1 lb of bacon or real bacon crumbles
- 1/2 bottle of ranch dressing
- 1 2 lb bag of shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 1 lb of shredded chicken (canned or freshly cooked)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook Noodles:
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Bacon:
- If using raw bacon, cook it until crispy. Once cooked, crumble it into pieces.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, Alfredo sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded chicken. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mixture into a 13×9 or 9×9 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings:
- Top the mixture with shredded mild cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the dish is bubbling, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve portions onto plates and enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake!
Note: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.
Popular questions and their answers related to Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake Recipe
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? A: Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand. Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well.
Q: Can I substitute the Alfredo sauce with another type of sauce? A: Certainly! While Alfredo sauce adds a creamy texture, you can experiment with other sauces like a garlic Parmesan or a creamy mushroom sauce.
Q: Is it necessary to use ranch dressing, or can I use a different dressing? A: Ranch dressing contributes a distinct flavor to the dish, but you can swap it with your favorite dressing for a different taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and then bake according to the instructions.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake? A: Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, ensure they are well-wrapped for best results.