Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake with Crispy Topping
A comforting casserole that combines tender egg noodles with shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet peas in a rich ranch-seasoned cream sauce. Topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs for delightful crunch, this family-friendly bake delivers all the beloved flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch in one satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty that pleases both kids and adults. The use of rotisserie chicken keeps prep time minimal while still delivering homestyle comfort.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons oil
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth, Progresso brand
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons ranch dressing and seasoning mix, from 1-oz package
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded deli
- 5 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups sweet peas, frozenfrozen corn1:1variation
different vegetable option
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs, Progresso brand crispy
- fresh parsley, chopped for garnish(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven and lightly grease baking dish
- 2
Cook noodles in salted water for minimum package time, drain and place in large bowl
- 3
Heat oil in skillet, cook onion until soft and translucent, season lightly with salt
- 4
Add chicken broth to skillet and heat to simmering
- 5
Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined
- 6
Stir in ranch dressing mix and pour mixture over noodles
- 7
Fold in chicken, bacon and frozen peas, spread in baking dish
- 8
Mix melted butter, bread crumbs and remaining ranch mix until well coated, spread over noodle mixture
- 9
Bake until top is crisp and sauce is bubbling
- 10
Let stand before serving
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and maximum flavor in this family-friendly casserole.
Cook noodles for minimum package time to prevent mushy texture after baking.
Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the creamy sauce to set properly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered container
Can assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, add 5-10 minutes to bake time
Serve hot as main dish with side salad or steamed vegetables
Common Mistakes
Cook noodles al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking
Let cream cheese soften completely to avoid lumpy sauce
Don't skip resting time to prevent sauce from running when cut
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, cook 2 cups diced chicken breast in the skillet before adding onions, seasoning with salt and pepper until fully cooked.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or entire dish covered in 350°F oven.
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes, freeze assembled unbaked casserole up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking as directed, adding extra time if needed.