If you are hunting for a comfort food that truly satisfies and delights every bite, the Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is a guaranteed winner. This creamy, cheesy casserole blends tender shredded chicken and crispy turkey bacon with a rich ranch-seasoned sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the perfect hug in a dish, packing layers of flavor and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is simpler than it looks, yet each element plays a crucial role. From the crispy turkey bacon bringing texture to the creamy cheeses balancing the sauce, these essentials come together harmoniously for a dish that stands out in both flavor and heartiness.
- 10 slices turkey bacon, diced: Adds smoky crispiness and a lighter alternative to traditional bacon.
- 3 cups shredded chicken: Provides tender protein that soaks up the ranch flavors perfectly.
- 1 oz package dried ranch dressing seasoning: Magic seasoning that infuses the whole casserole with that signature tangy ranch taste.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for a smooth, velvety roux base in the cheese sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant depth and warmth to the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to that luscious consistency we all love.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and decadent without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 cups half-and-half: Lightens the sauce just enough and keeps it perfectly creamy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, salty note to balance the cheese blend.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided: Adds meltiness and creaminess to the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Brings a classic tangy cheesiness that pairs perfectly with ranch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that elevates all the flavors.
- 1 lb dry large elbow pasta: The sturdy base that holds all the creamy goodness together.
How to Make Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the elbow pasta until it’s just shy of al dente. This slight undercooking means the pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the oven, absorbing all the creamy sauce. Once drained, toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent it from sticking and give it a bit of shine.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, butter your baking dish generously to ensure the casserole won’t stick and to add a subtle richness to the edges as it bakes.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon
In a skillet, cook diced turkey bacon until crispy. Set most of it aside for topping later, but leave some of the bacon fat in the pan because it will add incredible flavor when you sauté the chicken.
Step 4: Sauté the Chicken with Ranch Seasoning
Use the reserved turkey bacon fat to sauté the shredded chicken along with the dried ranch seasoning, making sure every shred is evenly coated with that herby, savory mix. This step layers in the signature ranch tang that defines this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about a minute or two. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.
Step 6: Combine Cheeses and Ingredients
Remove your cheese sauce from heat and stir in the Parmesan, half of the mozzarella, and half of the cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth. Then, fold in the cooked pasta, ranch-coated chicken, and half of the crispy turkey bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire mixture to your buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and the rest of the turkey bacon on top to create a golden, bubbly crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is sizzling and beautifully browned.
How to Serve Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving experience, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right after baking for a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a few crushed red pepper flakes can add a fun kick if you enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, also make fantastic companions offering some earthy contrast and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve the Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for cute, personal portions. It also makes for a stunning potluck dish when presented in a cast iron skillet or rustic casserole dish, inviting everyone to dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe without any rush.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this casserole freezes quite well. Assemble the dish but do not bake it yet; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding additional time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melted again, usually about 20-25 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps that delightful crispy topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Regular bacon works wonderfully and adds a more intense smoky flavor. Just remember to drain some of the fat if it renders too much during cooking. It’s really a matter of preference and what you have on hand.
Is there a substitute for the ranch dressing seasoning?
If you don’t have the dried ranch seasoning packet, you can make your own with a blend of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. It’s a simple DIY hack that tastes great in this casserole.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free elbow pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Just check that your ranch dressing seasoning is gluten-free as well.
What type of cheese works best?
The mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a lovely balance of meltiness, tang, and a bit of sharpness. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere if you want a new twist.
How can I add more veggies to this casserole?
Adding cooked broccoli florets, peas, or diced bell peppers before baking integrates fresh veggies easily and adds color and nutrition without compromising the comforting character of the casserole.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so fulfilling about a Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re craving cozy weeknight dinner vibes or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish delivers on flavor, comfort, and that perfect cheesy pull we all adore. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try and see why it quickly becomes a beloved classic in any kitchen.
Print
Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish combining tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a zesty ranch seasoning. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty casserole blends rich homemade cheese sauce with a delicious pasta base for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 10 slices turkey bacon, diced
- 3 cups shredded chicken
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Dry Goods
- 1 oz package dried ranch dressing seasoning
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 lb dry large elbow pasta
Dairy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups half-and-half
Produce & Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Other
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for tossing pasta
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta: Boil the elbow pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain well and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish generously to prevent sticking.
- Cook Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced turkey bacon until it is crispy and browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
- Sauté Chicken with Ranch Seasoning: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the remaining turkey bacon fat. Sprinkle the dried ranch dressing seasoning over the chicken and stir well to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes to infuse flavors and then remove from heat.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and half-and-half, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses to Sauce: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese along with half the mozzarella and half the cheddar into the thickened sauce until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken with ranch seasoning to the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Fold in half of the cooked turkey bacon as well.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top, followed by the remaining turkey bacon pieces.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this rich, comforting mac and cheese packed with savory chicken and crispy bacon!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute half the half-and-half with whole milk or add a splash of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- The turkey bacon fat adds great flavor; however, you can drain it for a leaner dish if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
