Description
A comforting pasta bake featuring creamy chicken, crispy bacon, and rich cheeses, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until combined and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate diced chicken, crumbled bacon, and half of both mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the sauce. Stir until coated and cheese melts.
- Combine cooked penne pasta with the creamy chicken and bacon mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
Use leftover chicken to save time. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for variety.
