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cheesy ranch chicken pasta casserole recipe

Golden Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Casserole

Owen ParkerOwen Parker
A creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish greased
  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Aluminum foil

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1 lb pasta penne or rotini
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • If not already cooked, cook the chicken by pan-frying or roasting. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, cream of chicken soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine.
  • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving

  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier serving.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use a mix of cheeses for varied flavor. Let the casserole rest before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
Keyword cheesy ranch chicken pasta casserole, creamy chicken pasta bake, ranch chicken casserole