⭐ CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE

This creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a comfort-food family favorite made with tender shredded chicken, ranch-seasoned cheesy sauce, elbow macaroni, and crispy bacon. Baked until golden and bubbly, this easy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. Every bite is rich, creamy, savory, and loaded with satisfying homestyle flavor.

⭐ RECIPE DETAILS

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 6–8

• Course: Dinner / Casserole

• Method: Oven-baked

• Cuisine: American Comfort

🥘 INGREDIENTS

Main Casserole

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked), cooked and drained

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella

• 1 packet ranch seasoning (1 oz)

• ½ cup milk or half-and-half

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• 1 cup crispy cooked bacon, chopped

Topping

• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers OR breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Extra bacon + parsley for topping (optional)

🔧 TOOLS YOU’LL NEED

• 9×13 baking dish

• Large mixing bowl

• Cheese grater

• Cutting board

• Sharp knife

• Sauce whisk

• Large pot (for pasta)

• Colander

• Measuring cups & spoons

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep & Preheat

• Preheat oven to 375°F.

• Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Cook Pasta

• Cook macaroni until just al dente.

• Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• cream of chicken soup

• sour cream

• milk

• ranch seasoning

• cheddar

• mozzarella

• garlic powder

• onion powder

• black pepper

Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Everything

• Add cooked chicken, macaroni, and HALF of the chopped bacon.

• Stir until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

5. Add to Baking Dish

• Pour everything into your 9×13 dish and spread evenly.

6. Make the Topping

Mix together:

• crushed crackers

• melted butter

Sprinkle across the top of the casserole.

7. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until:
✔ bubbly,
✔ golden on top,
✔ heated through.

8. Finish & Serve

• Sprinkle extra bacon on top.

• Add chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Serve warm!

🍽 SERVING IDEAS

Pairs perfectly with:

• Green beans

• Fresh side salad

• Steamed broccoli

• Garlic toast

• Corn on the cob

🧊 STORAGE

• Fridge: 3–4 days (airtight container)

• Freezer: Up to 2 months

• Reheat:

  • Oven: 350°F for 10–15 minutes

  • Microwave: 1–2 minutes per serving

🔄 VARIATIONS

• Spicy: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese

• Veggie boost: Add peas, spinach, broccoli, or corn

• Low-carb: Swap pasta for cauliflower florets

• Extra creamy: Add 4 oz cream cheese

FAQs

Is this casserole gluten-free?

No, it contains elbow macaroni which has gluten.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, prepare it the day before and bake just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

What can I substitute for bacon?

Try turkey bacon or omit for a lighter dish.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, most kids enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded?

Absolutely, cook and shred fresh chicken before mixing it in.

This casserole is pure comfort in every bite—creamy, cheesy, and packed with bacon flavor that my whole family loves.

Amy R.

★★★★★