Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole! This delightful recipe takes the classic baked mac and cheese we all know and love and gives it a comforting twist with chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something easy to prepare but oh-so-delicious.

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish. The creamy cheese sauce, savory turkey bacon, and tender chicken create layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein while still satisfying those cheesy cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please picky eaters of all ages!
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of ranch, chicken, and turkey bacon makes each bite irresistible.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal prep!
• Bubbly Goodness: Who doesn’t love that golden cheese layer bubbling away in the oven?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! For this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole, you’ll need some simple and wholesome components that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack for a bit of spice or Gouda for added creaminess.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutrition boost.
• Use different pasta shapes: While elbow pasta is classic, feel free to use shells or penne for a fun twist.

How to Make Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta just one minute shy of al dente. This helps avoid mushy noodles later on since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain them well, then stir in a drizzle of olive oil to keep them from sticking together while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 3-quart baking dish. This step ensures your casserole will come out easily after baking!

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat, cook the diced turkey bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This will infuse your dish with delicious flavor! Once crisped up, remove it with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Sauté Chicken with Ranch Seasoning

Increase the heat to medium, then add your shredded chicken along with the ranch seasoning. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld before transferring it back to a plate.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cooking until fragrant will elevate your sauce’s flavor! Then whisk in flour to create a roux before slowly adding heavy cream and half-and-half while whisking vigorously. Keep stirring until thickened—this is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to mix in all that glorious Parmesan cheese along with half of your mozzarella and cheddar until melted. Stir in your cooked pasta, chicken, and half of those crispy turkey bacon pieces—this is going to be so good!

Step 7: Bake Your Casserole

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish, topping it off with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and turkey bacon bits. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

And there you have it—a creamy Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole that’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

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

Creating the perfect Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is all about those little touches that elevate your dish!

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Boiling your pasta just shy of al dente prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. This way, the pasta retains a bit of bite and holds up well with the creamy sauce.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste profile, bringing out the richness of the ranch seasoning and turkey bacon.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing your casserole to rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven helps it set up nicely. This means cleaner slices when you serve, preventing it from falling apart!

• Experiment with Cheeses: While this recipe calls for mozzarella and cheddar, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for an exciting twist. Different cheeses can add unique flavors and textures.

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble this casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This saves time on busy days while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole

This comforting casserole can be presented in various delightful ways that will impress your family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up without overwhelming the dish.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions bring in a mild onion flavor and vibrant color that enhances both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Simple Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers lightly dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. This nutrient-packed side not only complements the dish but adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for sopping up any leftover cheese sauce. They are easy to make or buy pre-made!
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice over them brightens their flavor beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comfort food throughout the week. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or planning meals for busy nights, this dish holds up wonderfully in the fridge or freezer.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in intervals and stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole.

Can I use other types of meat in Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole?

This recipe is mild but flavorful. If you’d like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during preparation.

Can I make Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your flour and ranch seasoning are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Mac and Cheese Casserole! It’s a delightful twist on a classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for gatherings or as a hearty weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every cheesy bite!