Description
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Macaroni is the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in Chicken and Bacon: Stir the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon into the sauce until everything is well coated.
- Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the chicken mixture, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Heat Through: Transfer the mixture to a skillet or oven-safe dish. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
- Vegetable Additions: Steamed broccoli or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Pasta Substitutes: Penne, rotini, or shell pasta can be used instead of elbow macaroni.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop/Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 510 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Bacon Ranch Macaroni, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner Recipe