Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb Cellentani pasta (Cook according to package directions; weight is dry pasta.)
• 6 Bacon (Cooked and crumbled; use at least 6 pieces.)
• 1 lb Cooked rotisserie chicken (Shredded or cut into bite-size pieces.)
• 15 oz Alfredo sauce (One jar.)
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix (Approximately 1 oz packet.)
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese (Divided between the pasta mixture and topping.)
• 1.5 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese (Divided between the pasta mixture and topping.)
• Parsley (For sprinkling, to taste.)
• Cooking spray (For coating a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.)

Steps

1. 1

   Cook at least 6 bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crisp. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate, let them cool slightly, and crumble or chop them into small pieces.

2. 2

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

3. 3

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cellentani pasta and cook according to the package directions until tender but not mushy. Drain well.

4. 4

   Transfer the drained pasta to the prepared baking dish and spread it across the bottom.

5. 5

   Add the cooked rotisserie chicken, Alfredo sauce, and ranch seasoning mix to the baking dish. Stir until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.

6. 6

   Add part of the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and crumbled bacon to the pasta mixture, reserving some of each for the topping. Stir gently until distributed throughout.

7. 7

   Spread the mixture into an even layer. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar, mozzarella, and crumbled bacon over the top.

8. 8

   Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbling.

9. 9

   Remove the pasta bake from the oven, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

The recipe uses cooked rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked bacon for convenience. Use the package directions for the pasta; avoid overcooking it because it will continue cooking in the oven. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days and reheat until hot.

Nutrition per serving

• main dish
• casserole
• pasta bake
• chicken
• family dinner
• easy dinner
• baked
• comfort food