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The type of pasta you choose plays a crucial role in the overall texture and experience of your dish. Two popular options for this recipe are rotini and penne. Rotini, with its spiral shape, is excellent for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. On the other hand, penne offers a slightly different texture, with its tubular shape allowing for a delightful chewiness. Both choices work beautifully in this recipe, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake! This hearty casserole combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and crispy bacon in a rich, flavorful ranch sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors that make every bite a delight. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious one-dish meal!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini or penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup ranch dressing

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a hot environment for baking when your dish is ready.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your rotini or penne pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to shake off any excess water.

      Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, sour cream, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and creamy.

        Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture: Gently toss the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious creamy sauce. Take your time to mix, but avoid breaking the pasta.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Carefully pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly for an even bake.

            Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese across the top of your pasta bake, ensuring an extra cheesy finish.

              Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top, indicating that it's ready.

                Garnish and Serve: After removing the pasta bake from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes to set a bit. Garnish with the freshly chopped green onions to add a pop of color and flavor before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls, and drizzle a little extra ranch dressing over the top for added flavor. A sprinkle of additional green onions can enhance the look and taste!