**Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake: A Flavorful Comfort Dish**
Looking for a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying? Our Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect choice! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy ranch cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a delicious blend of savory flavors and cheesy goodness that’s ideal for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
**Why You’ll Love This Recipe*
- **Irresistibly Cheesy* The creamy cheese sauce, infused with ranch flavor, makes every bite rich and satisfying. It’s a comforting twist on classic pasta dishes that will quickly become a favorite.
- **Hearty and Filling* With tender chicken and pasta baked together, this dish is both hearty and filling. It’s perfect for satisfying appetites and making sure everyone leaves the table full.
- **Easy to Prepare* This recipe is straightforward to make, with simple ingredients and easy steps. It’s a great option for a busy weeknight or a make-ahead meal.
**Ingredients You’ll Need*
- **Chicken* Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and diced. The chicken adds protein and substance to the dish.
- **Pasta* Choose your favorite pasta shape—penne, rotini, or fusilli work well. Cook it until al dente to ensure it holds up well during baking.
- **Cheese Sauce* A blend of cream, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese creates a creamy, flavorful sauce. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- **Ranch Seasoning* Adds a tangy and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce. You can use a packet of ranch seasoning mix or make your own.
**How to Make Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake*
1. **Prepare the Pasta* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Cook the Chicken* In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. **Make the Cheese Sauce* In a large saucepan, melt some butter over medium heat. Stir in a bit of flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth. Add ranch seasoning and shredded cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. **Combine Ingredients* In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. **Bake the Dish* Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. **Serve* Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
**Tips for Success*
- **Customize the Cheese* Feel free to mix different cheeses into the sauce for added flavor. A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan works beautifully.
- **Add Vegetables* Boost the nutrition of the dish by incorporating vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.
- **Make Ahead* This pasta bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
Ready to savor a comforting, cheesy pasta bake? Click now on GoodandBad to get the full recipe for Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake and make your next meal a delicious success! 🍝🧀🌿 #cheesypasta #ranchchicken #goodandbad