Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing for a meal that's sure to please the whole family.
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored sauce, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also irresistibly delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that coats every strand of pasta
- Savory bacon bits that add a delightful crunch
- A quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights
A Delicious Family Favorite
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the deliciousness of chicken, bacon, and the creamy goodness of ranch dressing. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the proteins. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
The combination of flavors in this recipe creates a rich, savory experience that everyone will love. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy sauce. With every bite, you'll enjoy a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that makes this dish truly irresistible. Plus, it's easy enough for even novice cooks to whip up, ensuring that anyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is how quickly it comes together. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. The use of cooked chicken and pre-cooked bacon means you can cut down on prep time significantly. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The cooking process is straightforward, with just a single skillet needed for the sauce and a pot for the pasta. This minimizes cleanup and lets you focus on enjoying your meal. In about 30 minutes, you'll have a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that will impress your family and friends. It's the perfect solution for those days when you need a satisfying dinner but don’t have much time to spare.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not only a fantastic dinner option, but it also works well for meal prepping. This dish can be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply portion out the pasta into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. It's a great way to ensure you have a delicious home-cooked meal ready to enjoy, even on the busiest days.
When reheating, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, and it will taste almost as fresh as when it was first made. The creamy sauce may thicken slightly upon refrigeration, but adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating can help restore its silky texture. This recipe is perfect for those looking to save time and still enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Bacon
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ranch dressing, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet, stirring to coat evenly. Then, mix in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese.
Serve
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any moisture buildup. It’s best to consume the leftovers within four days for optimal taste and texture. If you find that the pasta has absorbed too much sauce, simply add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back its creamy consistency.
If you're planning to freeze the dish, it’s advisable to do so without the cheese, as the texture can change upon thawing. Assemble the pasta and sauce, minus the cheese, in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove, adding fresh cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of flavor, consider serving your Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle additional cheese on top before serving for a melty, indulgent finish.
Pair this dish with your favorite white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to elevate your dining experience. The wine's acidity can cut through the creaminess of the sauce, creating a well-rounded meal. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy pasta dish is sure to be a hit.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this recipe.
→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and opt for a lighter ranch dressing.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine them just before serving.
→ What should I serve with this pasta?
A simple side salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with this dish.
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing for a meal that's sure to please the whole family.
Created by: Victoria Hall
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Bacon
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ranch dressing, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet, stirring to coat evenly. Then, mix in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g