Description
This Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, juicy turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all baked to perfection with pasta or rice and melted cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or using up leftover chicken or turkey. With its rich flavors and easy prep, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that you can easily customize to fit your family’s taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 package (16 oz) rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the heavy cream and ranch dressing mix to the skillet, stirring well. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, sauce from the skillet, and half of the shredded cheeses. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead Option:
You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. - Substitutions and Variations:
- Meat Substitutes: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or swap the turkey with ham or sausage for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and turkey, and load the casserole with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice and ensure the ranch dressing and bacon are gluten-free.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb version.
- Preventing a Watery Casserole:
If you add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, cook them first and drain any excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. Also, be sure to cook pasta al dente to avoid it getting too soft when baking. - Freezing and Storing:
This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a quick meal. For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. - Cheese Choices:
Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor and mozzarella for creaminess. A blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add more depth to the casserole. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve this casserole with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls to complement the rich, creamy texture. It’s great for casual family dinners or holiday gatherings, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!