Indulge in the rich flavors of our chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this pasta will surely impress your family and friends. Get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!
Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 600 calories, 35g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 45g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy; remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and sauté until heated through.
- Add ranch dressing and heavy cream to the skillet; stir until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cheese, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet; toss to combine.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the fettuccine with any pasta shape you prefer. Greek yogurt can replace heavy cream for a lighter option, and turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Ensure the bacon is crispy to add the right texture.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Mix the pasta and sauce gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
Helpful Tips
- Cook the pasta in salted water for added flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer to develop richer flavors.
- Add extra cheese for a creamier texture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can use a homemade ranch dressing or a similar creamy dressing like blue cheese or Caesar for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and familiar flavors usually appeal to kids, making it a great family meal.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pasta.
Conclusion
This chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe is a delectable combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings. It’s simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite that brings comfort to your table!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken diced
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy; remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and sauté until heated through.
- Add ranch dressing and heavy cream to the skillet; stir until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cheese, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet; toss to combine.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
