Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Why Make This Recipe
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Plus, it combines the best of pasta and hearty ingredients, making it satisfying and filling.
How to Make Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of pasta noodles
- 1 cup of Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup of cooked and diced chicken
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta noodles according to the package instructions, but only cook them until they are halfway done. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch seasoning.
- Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of Alfredo sauce evenly on the bottom.
- Add the halfway cooked pasta noodles on top of the Alfredo sauce layer.
- Arrange the cooked chicken pieces over the noodles.
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the Alfredo sauce.
- Scatter the crumbled bacon over the cheese layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional ranch seasoning, if desired, and enjoy your delicious Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
How to Serve Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This dish is best served hot. You can make it even more special by garnishing it with fresh parsley or extra bacon bits. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This recipe is great for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
How to Store Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can also freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it should keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- For a little crunch, consider adding some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- You can use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and onion powder based on your taste preference.
- Try swapping the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese for a different flavor.
Variation
If you want to make this dish healthier, you can substitute whole grain pasta. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. For a different flavor twist, experiment with different types of ranch seasoning or add hot sauce for some kick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon. You can add extra vegetables and maybe some cooked mushrooms for added flavors.
