Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Rigatoni)
  • 8 strips Bacon (Thick-cut preferred), diced and cooked crispy
  • 3 cups Cooked Chicken (Shredded or diced)
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Full Fat), softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup Milk (Whole or Semi-Skimmed)
  • ½ cup Sour Cream (Full Fat) or Plain Greek Yoghurt
  • 1 ounce packet Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Sharp)
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack or Mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish), chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the 9x13 inch casserole dish.
  2. Boil pasta according to package directions, subtracting 1–2 minutes from the recommended cooking time (it must be al dente). Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  3. Dice the bacon and cook it in a skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving 1 tablespoon of the fat for flavour, and drain the excess grease.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, and sour cream (or yoghurt). Whisk vigorously until smooth and lump-free. (Using an electric mixer is recommended for a quick, smooth base.)
  5. Add the dry Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to the bowl. Whisk until fully incorporated and the sauce is uniform.
  6. Add the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and three-quarters (3/4) of the cooked bacon to the sauce mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Spoon the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, lightly golden, and the casserole is heated through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  10. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This is vital to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining crispy bacon bits and fresh chopped parsley (if using) over the top before serving.