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To create a mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake, it’s essential to know the role of each ingredient that contributes to its unique taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish features tender penne pasta, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with gooey cheese. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, it promises to satisfy every palate. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors that will have your loved ones asking for seconds and make this recipe a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

6 slices of crispy bacon, chopped

1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes, drained

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for the pasta bake.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil, adding a generous amount of salt. Once boiling, carefully add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Next, stir in the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly distributed.

        Combine Ingredients: To the prepared cream cheese mixture, gently fold in the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, drained diced tomatoes, and the cooked penne pasta. Add half of both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring thoroughly so that all ingredients are uniformly coated in the creamy sauce.

          Layer the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring an even spread. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously over the top for a gooey finish.

            Bake: Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and turns a beautiful golden brown on top.

              Garnish & Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | 6-8 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look or portion it out onto individual plates. A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley can enhance the visual appeal, and a side of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty dish. Enjoy!