Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner that your whole family will love? Look no further! This Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake brings together creamy ranch flavors, tender chicken, and gooey cheese in one amazing dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it uses rotisserie chicken, making it even easier! My family always asks for this dish, and it’s a go-to for Sunday dinners. You’ll love how comforting and filling it is!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cream-based pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven nice and hot!
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, cream-based pasta sauce, minced garlic, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir well! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer your pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and, if you like, add some breadcrumbs on top for a little crunch!
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Just wait for that wonderful smell!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
Serve this pasta bake hot and fresh from the oven. It’s great on its own or with a side salad. You might want to pair it with garlic bread for an extra treat!
How to Store Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the pasta bake cool down. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and put it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days.
Tips to Make Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; you want it al dente since it will cook more in the oven.
- Feel free to add some veggies, like spinach or broccoli, to make it even healthier.
- If you like more heat, toss in some red pepper flakes!
Variation (if any)
You can switch up the cheese! Try using mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor. You could also substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or even vegetables for a meatless version.
FAQs
1. Can I use different pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta you love. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions.
2. How can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready!
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to cover it well. It’s best consumed within 2-3 months.
Cheesy Garlic Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta penne or rotini
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cream-based pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven nice and hot!
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, cream-based pasta sauce, minced garlic, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir well! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer your pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and, if you like, add some breadcrumbs on top for a little crunch!
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Just wait for that wonderful smell!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.