Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. It’s simple to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or whipping up a meal for yourself, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious choice.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 540
Protein: 25 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Fat: 30 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. The creamy ranch flavor makes it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. This dish can be a wholesome meal with added vegetables, or you can keep it simple for a quick dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the bacon and cheese, making it a satisfying option for any night of the week.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 tablespoons flour
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk (or cream) until smooth, then add the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon, stirring to coat everything.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with garlic bread for a comforting twist or alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
To store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess. You can also freeze this pasta dish for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting results.
- You can substitute the bacon with cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Don’t rush the cheese melting process; make sure it’s smooth before adding the pasta.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- For a spicy twist, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an herbed version.
- To give it a zesty flavor, squeeze in some lemon juice just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe? Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
What can I add to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta healthier? Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can be added to boost its nutritional value.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful dish that combines comfort with simplicity. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation. Try it today and discover just how delicious pasta night can be!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results.
- to taste none Salt
- to taste none Pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
Pasta
- 1 none pasta Use your preferred type of pasta.
Bacon
- to taste none bacon Cook until crispy and crumble.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk (or cream) until smooth, then add the onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Mixing
- Mix in the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon, stirring to coat everything.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy!
