2teaspoonschopped parsley, for garnish6 ounces pasta
4strips bacon
2teaspoonsminced garlic
2/3cupheavy cream
4ouncescream cheese or mascarpone
1/2cupParmesan cheese
1 1/2tablespoonsranch dressing mix
1/4teaspoonblack pepper
3/4cupchicken broth
1 1/2cupsdiced or shredded cooked chicken
1 1/2cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2teaspoonschopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Gather Ingredients: Prepare and measure the ingredients and have them at hand.
Prepare the Pan and Oven: Grease a 2-quart baking dish and preheat the oven to 350 F.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in boiling salted water following the package directions, drain it, and set aside.
Cook the Bacon: Meanwhile, cook the diced bacon in a large sauté pan or saucepan over medium heat until crisp; transfer to paper towels to drain.
Make the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the drippings in the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and cream cheese and whisk for 1 to 2 minutes or until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce mixture is smooth. Remove from the heat.
Finish the Dish: Add the Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing mix, pepper, and chicken broth; stir to blend. Add the drained pasta, chicken, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir until the ingredients are all well distributed and transfer to the prepared baking pan. Top with the bacon and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Bake the chicken bacon ranch casserole for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Serve: Serve with a garnish of chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Keyword bacon, chicken casserole, pasta casserole, ranch dressing, rotisserie chicken