Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare chicken and bacon: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside. In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté chicken until golden. Remove and keep warm.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter (if needed) and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream, milk, and ranch seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine everything: Add pasta, chicken, and half of the bacon to the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Finish & serve: Top with remaining bacon and extra cheese if desired. Garnish with parsley and serve hot!
Tips for Creamy Perfection
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue absorbing sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce (pre-shredded can make it grainy).
- For extra creaminess, add 2 oz cream cheese while simmering the sauce.
- Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Variations
- Broccoli Bacon Ranch Pasta: Add steamed broccoli florets for a fresh, crunchy twist.
- One-Pot Version: Cook pasta directly in the sauce with 2 cups chicken broth.
- Baked Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Turkey or Ham: Swap chicken for leftover turkey or diced ham for variety.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with garlic bread and a simple green salad.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
- Perfect as meal prep — reheat easily for quick lunches or dinners.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning? Yes, add 1/4 cup ranch dressing and reduce milk slightly for a tangy flavor.
Can I use other pasta shapes? Absolutely! Penne, shells, or bowties work perfectly.
What type of chicken works best? Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work beautifully for this recipe.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is comfort food at its best — rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Every forkful brings a perfect mix of cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon. A family favorite that’s guaranteed to be requested again and again!