Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dinner, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is the perfect dish. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, ranch-infused sauce, every bite is loaded with comfort. This is an easy-to-make meal that delivers bold flavors and is guaranteed to be a family favorite.

This pasta bake is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty dish to satisfy a hungry crowd. The combination of Alfredo sauce and ranch dressing creates a luxuriously creamy base, while cheddar and mozzarella cheese add the perfect gooey, melty finish. And, of course, the crispy bacon gives it a smoky, savory crunch that takes it to the next level.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. Using pre-cooked chicken and store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time, making this a quick and convenient meal without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable—you can swap out ingredients to make it your own.

Serve this pasta bake fresh out of the oven with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s rich, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible!

Servings and Timing

Serves: 6
Ready in: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 6 slices bacon (cooked & crumbled)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta – Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce – In a large mixing bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Assemble the Pasta Bake – Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the crumbled bacon to the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
5. Layer the Cheese – Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Finish and Serve – Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon and fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Protein Swap: Use cooked turkey or even crispy tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Different Cheeses: Try swapping out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a unique taste.

Tips

• For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes before crumbling.
• If you like a crispier top, broil the pasta bake for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

This Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!