Name: Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound cavatappi, rigatoni, or penne pasta; 3 cups broccoli, cut into bite size pieces; 1/2 onion, diced (or ½ teaspoon onion powder); 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional); 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cups half and half (or substitute milk whisked with 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch); 2 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creamy); 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 (1 oz.) packet dry ranch dressing seasoning mix (2 tablespoons) or DIY ranch seasoning:; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 2 teaspoons each dried dill and dried chives; 1 teaspoon each onion powder and garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon each pepper and salt; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon ground mustard; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a casserole brimming with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and that signature tangy ranch flavor. Today, I’m excited to share my Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe — a dish that brings all those comforting elements together with ooey-gooey cheese and fresh broccoli for a meal that just feels like a warm hug.

A white speckled bowl filled with a colorful pasta dish is shown from above, containing three main layers. The bottom layer is spiral pasta with a pale yellow color. The middle layer consists of small broccoli florets, red bell pepper pieces, and melted yellow cheddar cheese that coats parts of the pasta. The top layer is garnished with crispy brown bacon bits and chopped green onions scattered all over. A silver fork is resting on the side of the bowl, partially buried in the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this casserole countless times because it’s just that dependable and delicious. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or something to bring to a potluck, the combination of creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and cheesy chicken is pure magic. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to pull together, even if you’re juggling a busy day!

Full-bodied flavor: The ranch seasoning brings that perfect balance of tangy, herby, and savory notes that makes every bite sing.
Perfect texture combo: Crispy bacon and tender broccoli add contrast to the creamy sauce and soft pasta, making it so satisfying.
Comfort food with a veggie twist: The broccoli sneaks in some green goodness without compromising the indulgence factor.
Make ahead-friendly: You can assemble it in advance and bake it when ready, perfect for busy families or meal prepping.

A white casserole dish filled with a three-layer baked pasta dish. The bottom layer is spiral pasta mixed with bright green broccoli pieces and light chunks of chicken. The middle layer is melted golden cheddar cheese spread unevenly, covering the pasta and broccoli. The top layer has crispy, dark red bacon bits and chopped green onions scattered over the cheese, creating a colorful contrast. A golden spoon is scooping some of the baked pasta, showing the layers inside. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this casserole plays a role, blending texture and flavor so beautifully that you get a balanced, hearty dish. When you shop, look for fresh broccoli and quality bacon, as these elevate the dish noticeably.

Flat lay of uncooked cavatappi pasta spirals, fresh bright green broccoli florets, thick slices of cooked and crumbled golden-brown bacon, a small white bowl of glossy olive oil, a pat of creamy unsalted butter, half a white onion diced finely, a chopped vibrant red bell pepper, several peeled garlic cloves minced, a small white bowl with pale all-purpose flour, a small white bowl filled with creamy half and half, a small white bowl of golden low sodium chicken broth, a small white bowl containing light beige dry ranch seasoning powder, a small white bowl of coarse salt, a small white bowl of dried basil leaves, a small white bowl of ground mustard powder, a small white bowl of black pepper, a small white bowl of red pepper flakes, a small white bowl of smooth sour cream, a neat pile of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a neat pile of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, tender shredded rotisserie chicken, whole clean brown eggs arranged neatly -- all ingredients placed with perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic bowls and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Cavatappi or Penne Pasta: The curly shape holds onto the creamy ranch sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Broccoli: Adds a slight crunch and fresh color, balancing the indulgence of the cheese and bacon.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a salty crunch that complements the softness of the other ingredients.
Olive Oil & Butter: These fats are essential for sautéing veggies and giving the sauce a rich base.
Onion & Garlic: Aromatics that build depth and warmth in the sauce.
All-purpose Flour: Helps thicken the ranch cheese sauce to just the right creamy consistency.
Half and Half & Chicken Broth: Creates a creamy yet light sauce that isn’t too heavy but still indulgent.
Dry Ranch Dressing Seasoning: The signature flavor bomb—either store-bought or DIY—to give authentic ranch taste.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives tang and richness; mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
Sour Cream: Optional, but adds extra creaminess and a touch of tang.
Rotisserie Chicken: Keeps prep quick and easy, adding tender, flavorful protein.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this creamy chicken bacon ranch casserole recipe is how adaptable it is! I often tweak it depending on what’s in my fridge or to suit family preferences. Don’t hesitate to add or swap ingredients to make it your own.

Variation: I love swapping in green beans or cauliflower for the broccoli when I want a change—both work wonderfully.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
Low-carb version: Swap pasta for cooked cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Vegetarian twist: Skip the chicken and bacon; add more veggies and some mushrooms for umami depth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and par-cook your veggies and pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to boil. Toss in your broccoli and cook it for about 3-5 minutes until just tender. Then, scoop it out with a slotted spoon and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps it bright and prevents mushiness later on. Next, cook your pasta in the same water until just al dente—resist the urge to overcook since it’ll keep cooking in the oven later. Drain everything well and set aside.

Step 2: Build your savory cheese sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook about 4 minutes until soft and translucent, then add the chopped bell pepper and minced garlic. After 2-3 minutes, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw taste. Reduce heat to low and whisk in the half and half along with chicken broth and your ranch seasoning mix. Keep whisking until the sauce simmers and thickens nicely—about 5 to 10 minutes. Then, stir in cheeses and sour cream for that luscious creaminess.

Step 3: Combine all the good stuff

Turn off the heat and fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, broccoli, and half of your crumbled bacon. Then gently stir in the pasta until everything is evenly coated in the creamy ranch sauce. If your pan isn’t big enough, you can transfer everything to a large pot to mix comfortably.

Step 4: Bake or serve straight from the pan

If you want to serve it immediately, just top with the reserved bacon and dig in! Or, for that extra melty, golden top, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, sprinkle on the remaining cheddar cheese and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Then, add the rest of the bacon on top and bake another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and hot. I always let mine sit a few minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

Top Tip

Over the years, I’ve learned some handy tricks that take this creamy chicken bacon ranch casserole recipe from great to unforgettable.

Cook bacon in the oven: Baking your bacon on foil-lined trays keeps cleanup easy and results in perfectly even crispiness without babysitting the pan.
Don’t over-thicken the sauce: It’s tempting to simmer longer, but a thick sauce can turn gluey once baked; loosen it slightly with a splash of milk or broth if needed.
Al dente pasta is key: The noodles continue cooking in the oven, so stop just shy of fully done to keep them from turning mushy.
Let it rest before serving: A quick 5-minute rest after baking helps the casserole firm up and makes serving easier and cleaner.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

chicken bacon ranch casserole - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of extra ranch dressing or a few thinly sliced green onions make a charming finishing touch that your guests or family will appreciate.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad or some roasted veggies like asparagus or carrots. Warm, crusty bread or a simple garlic bread on the side can be a winner if you want to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or potlucks, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for single servings that look charming and festive. Another fun idea – top with extra crispy bacon strips arranged in a lattice for a crispy golden “lid” that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, I let the casserole cool to room temperature before tightly covering it with foil or plastic wrap and popping it into the fridge. It usually keeps well for up to 5 days, and reheats beautifully without losing that creamy texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the unbaked casserole wrapped in plastic wrap and foil with great results — just remember not to thaw it before baking to avoid a soggy texture. Bake it straight from the freezer at 350°F for about an hour, then uncover and bake 10-15 more minutes until hot and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or zap individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk before heating helps restore the creamy, saucy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?

Yes! I often use cavatappi, penne, or rigatoni because their shapes hold sauce well. Feel free to swap with shells or fusilli too—just make sure to cook al dente so the pasta doesn’t get mushy when baked.

How do I make my casserole extra creamy?

Adding sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt to the cheese sauce really ups the creaminess factor. Also, gently melting a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses creates a silky texture. Just avoid overheating the sauce to prevent curdling.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate it. Just take it out about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed. This saves tons of time on busy days.

What’s the best way to cook bacon for this casserole?

I prefer baking bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet at 400°F—it cooks evenly, crisps up nicely, and cleanup is a breeze. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning, especially if you’re using thick-cut bacon.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes I always turn to when I want comfort food that feels special but comes together without stress. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home just like it is in mine — hearty, simple, and totally satisfying.