Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6–8 generous portions
Ingredients**
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
Instructions**
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm but cooked).
- Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In the same skillet, cook the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
- Remove and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Mix until creamy and bubbly, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine Everything
- In a large bowl or pot, mix cooked pasta, chicken, half of the bacon, cheddar, mozzarella, and sauce.
- Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy ranch goodness.
- Bake It (Optional for a Golden Finish)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and bacon.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a touch of extra shredded cheddar.
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, smoky, ranch-flavored perfection!
Tips & Variations**
- Add veggies: Broccoli, peas, or spinach go great in this pasta.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Make it ahead: Prepare everything, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
Benefits**
- Protein-packed from chicken and bacon.
- Comfort food at its finest — creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Family-friendly — even picky eaters will love it.
- Meal-prep friendly — leftovers taste even better the next day!