Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients:
1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great)
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cool. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add olive oil and butter, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, ranch seasoning mix, and softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Add the Cheese:
Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until melted and creamy.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the sauce, then toss in the drained pasta. Mix everything until well coated in the creamy ranch sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
