Description
Indulge in our Creamy Ranch Chicken Casserole with Cheese and Pasta—comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, rich cheese, and flavorful ranch seasoning, all enveloped in a comforting pasta base. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
Pasta
- 8 ounces short pasta (like penne or rotini)
Ranch Dressing Mix
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
Cheddar Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli or peas (optional)
Milk
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your casserole is assembled.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, milk, and shredded chicken. Stir until well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked pasta and any additional veggies into the sauce mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese for that ooey-gooey finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Shred Chicken Easily: Use a stand mixer to shred cooked chicken quickly and effortlessly.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the casserole and avoids becoming mushy.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost.
- Cover While Baking: If the cheese starts browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the last few minutes.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving to help it set up nicely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg