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Ranch Chicken Bacon Penne Bake

This Ranch Chicken Bacon Penne Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors. A comforting baked pasta perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta dry
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken
  • 1 cup Turkey Bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
  • 0.5 cup Green Onions sliced
  • 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs plain or seasoned

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • If not already cooked, prepare your chicken by poaching or baking until fully cooked, then shred it with two forks. Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ranch dressing, 1 cup milk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and evenly blended.
  • Add the cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled turkey bacon, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the ranch sauce. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and proteins evenly with the creamy ranch mixture.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle 1/2 cup sliced green onions over the top, followed by 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs turn a beautiful golden brown.
  • Remove the Ranch Chicken Bacon Penne Bake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to thicken up slightly, making it even more delicious.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat covered to maintain moisture.
  • Substitute turkey bacon with beef bacon or smoked turkey sausage for different flavors.
  • Try Greek yogurt-based ranch or dairy-free cheese alternatives for dietary preferences.