This Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne is a rich, creamy pasta dish that's sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a cheesy, ranch-flavored Alfredo sauce. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress guests at a gathering.

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The Inspiration Behind Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne

This recipe takes the classic flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch and combines them with a creamy, homemade Alfredo sauce. The result is a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-creamy. The addition of penne pasta helps the sauce cling to every bite, while the bacon adds a nice crispy contrast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne is:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich, cheesy, and coats every bite of pasta perfectly.
• Simple to Make: With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward method, this dish is ideal for home cooks of all levels.
• Packed with Flavor: Bacon, chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese combine for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 750 kcal
• Fat: 50g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 1150mg

This rich and indulgent pasta dish is filling and satisfying, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as a comforting weeknight meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish is delicious on its own but can be complemented by a simple side salad or some garlic bread. The fresh greens or a side of roasted vegetables will help balance out the richness of the pasta.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Fun Fact: Alfredo Sauce Origins

Did you know Alfredo sauce originated in Rome in the early 20th century? It was created by Alfredo di Lelio for his pregnant wife, who wanted something simple and rich. Today, Alfredo sauce is beloved worldwide and serves as a versatile base for many pasta dishes.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Freshly grated mozzarella cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese, which can contain anti-caking agents.
• Season the Chicken: Adding a little ranch seasoning to the chicken during cooking enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the penne just until al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.

Optional Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon and add roasted vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy twist.
• Swap the Cheese: Try using sharp cheddar or Gouda in place of the mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

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Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Recipe

Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup milk (2% or whole milk)
• ¾ cup salted butter
• 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• ½ pound cooked chicken breast, chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
• ½ cup prepared ranch dressing
• 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
3. • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to combine.
   • Add the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon:
5. • While the sauce is cooking, chop the cooked chicken breast and cooked bacon.
   • Toss the chicken with ranch dressing for added flavor, if desired.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
7. • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, chicken, bacon, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with freshly grated mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.

This Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne is a cheesy, indulgent dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with its creamy Alfredo sauce, savory bacon, and tender chicken. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this easy-to-follow recipe!