Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that hugs your taste buds and warms your heart, then the Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is the perfect choice. This recipe takes classic baked mac and cheese to a whole new level with the delightful flavors of chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home.

This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll find that it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that can be whipped up in no time. The creamy cheese sauce combined with crispy turkey bacon creates a rich and satisfying meal that even picky eaters will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this hearty casserole ready for the oven in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: Everyone knows kids love mac and cheese! Adding chicken and turkey bacon makes it even more appealing for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when you’re ready for a stress-free meal.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy texture paired with savory ranch flavors makes this dish irresistibly comforting.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for leftovers or potlucks, this casserole is always a hit wherever you take it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is simple. These wholesome ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge!

For the Casserole

• 10 slices Turkey Bacon, diced
• 3 cups shredded chicken (see recipe notes for substitutions)
• 1 oz package dried ranch dressing seasoning
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups half and half
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lb. dry large elbow pasta

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey if you want to save time.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with a lighter milk option or use low-fat cheese.

How to Make Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the large elbow pasta according to package instructions, stopping just shy of al dente. This step is crucial because the pasta will continue cooking as it bakes in the casserole. Once drained, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of your dish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you butter a 3-quart baking dish. This ensures that nothing sticks during baking, allowing you to enjoy every last cheesy bite without any hassle.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat, cook the diced turkey bacon until it’s crisp. This step adds wonderful flavor to your casserole! After cooking, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and allow it to drain on a plate while leaving just enough fat in the skillet for later steps.

Step 4: Sauté Chicken with Ranch Seasoning

Raise the heat to medium and add your shredded chicken along with ranch dressing seasoning into the same skillet. Stirring helps coat the chicken evenly with those zesty flavors. After about 2-3 minutes, remove it from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Make Your Creamy Sauce

Add butter along with minced garlic back into the skillet. Cooking until fragrant brings out its wonderful aroma! Then whisk in flour to create a roux before slowly adding both heavy cream and half-and-half. Whisking constantly helps achieve that silky smooth sauce we all love.

Step 6: Add Cheeses & Combine Ingredients

Once your sauce has thickened slightly, stir in all of the Parmesan cheese alongside half of both mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until melted into gooey perfection. Then mix in cooked pasta, chicken, and half of the crispy turkey bacon pieces – this step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 7: Bake & Serve!

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish, topping it off with remaining mozzarella, cheddar cheeses, and crispy turkey bacon bits. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top — then dig right in! Enjoy each cheesy forkful of warmth from this delightful Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

Creating the perfect Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is easy when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Cook Pasta Just Right: Make sure to boil your pasta one minute shy of al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy during baking, allowing it to maintain that delightful texture.

• Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. The richer the cheese, the creamier and tastier your casserole will be, making every bite utterly delicious.

• Mix in Chicken Carefully: When adding the shredded chicken and ranch seasoning, be gentle so as not to break up the chicken too much. You want nice chunks of chicken throughout for a satisfying bite.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap out or add cheeses! Gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack can give your casserole a unique twist that enhances its flavor profile.

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set. This makes serving easier and keeps everything nicely layered together.

How to Serve Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

Presentation can elevate any dish, and this creamy casserole is no exception! Here are some delightful ways to serve it that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can bring warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and add an appealing crunch on top.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also offers a nice contrast in texture while complementing the creamy mac and cheese.
• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate—plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrition while enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to share this comforting dish with your loved ones. Enjoy every cheesy moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week. With a few simple steps, you can make it ahead of time and store it with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Reheat in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use turkey bacon in Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole?

Absolutely! This recipe uses turkey bacon as a healthier alternative while still providing that delicious smoky flavor.

What can I substitute for chicken in Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole?

You can easily swap out the chicken for rotisserie chicken, shredded beef, or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How long does Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole stay fresh?

When stored properly, this casserole can last in the fridge for 3-4 days or up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to add steamed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring family together over a hearty meal that makes everyone feel at home. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your variations or thoughts! Happy cooking!

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