CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE
Ingredients:
4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 1/2 cups sour cream or ranch dressing (for extra ranch flavor)
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or ranch dressing), ranch seasoning, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Mix the Casserole:
Add the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, cooked pasta, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, and serve hot.