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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

A comforting casserole featuring tender pasta, creamy ranch sauce, savory chicken, smoky bacon, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 490
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 package (16 oz) uncooked spiral pasta
  • 1.5 cups 2% milk
  • 0.5 cup ranch salad dressing
  • 1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
  • 2 cups cubed cooked chicken Use rotisserie chicken for best results.
  • 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled Can substitute for turkey bacon.
  • 2 cups shredded Colby cheese, divided Substitutes include cheddar or Monterey Jack.
  • to taste sliced green onions, optional For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cook the spiral pasta according to the package directions, then drain it well and place it in a large bowl. Optionally salt the pasta water and save 2 tablespoons of the cooking water for the sauce.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same pot, stir together the milk, ranch dressing, and ranch dressing mix until smooth. Add the cream cheese cubes and cook over medium heat until melted, stirring often.
Mixing
  1. Add the cubed chicken, crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of the shredded Colby cheese to the pasta mixture. Stir gently until well combined.
Baking
  1. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Colby cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted.
Serving
  1. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, and consider adding a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.