Looking for a comforting and flavorful dish to impress your family or guests? This Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with Beef Bacon is the ultimate dinner solution that combines rich, creamy textures with bold, savory flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings together tender chicken, smoky beef bacon, and a luscious ranch Alfredo sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

As someone who loves experimenting with hearty meals, I’ve found this dish to be a standout among large family dinner ideas for entertaining. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, even on busy weeknights. Whether you’re a fan of classic Alfredo or looking to try something new like Ranch Chicken Alfredo, this recipe offers a delightful twist that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Plus, for those mindful of their salt intake, I’ve tailored this recipe to be one of the low sodium meals that taste good. By using fresh ingredients and controlling the seasoning, you can enjoy all the flavor without the guilt. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering pasta dish!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion

Category: Main Dish, Dinner

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

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Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with beef bacon Recipe

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👨‍🍳 Author: [email protected]

🌍 Cuisine: General

🍰 Category: Pasta

Ingredients:

01

– 1 lb fettuccine or penne pasta

02

– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

03

– 6 strips beef bacon, chopped

04

– 2 cups heavy cream

05

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

06

– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (low sodium if preferred)

07

– 1 tsp garlic powder

08

– 1 tsp onion powder

09

– 2 tbsp unsalted butter

10

– 1 tbsp olive oil

11

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

12

– Salt and pepper to taste

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Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6-8

What You’ll Need

To create this delectable Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with Beef Bacon, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. The chicken provides a hearty protein base, while the beef bacon adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish beyond a standard pasta recipe. The combination of heavy cream and ranch seasoning forms the signature Ranch Alfredo Sauce, giving it a tangy creaminess that ties everything together. Pasta serves as the perfect vehicle to soak up the sauce, and a touch of cheese adds a melty, indulgent finish. Fresh herbs and spices enhance the overall taste, making this a well-rounded meal ideal for large family dinner ideas for entertaining.

INGREDIENTS

• – 1 lb fettuccine or penne pasta
• – 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• – 6 strips beef bacon, chopped
• – 2 cups heavy cream
• – 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• – 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (low sodium if preferred)
• – 1 tsp garlic powder
• – 1 tsp onion powder
• – 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• – 1 tbsp olive oil
• – 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• – Salt and pepper to taste

PREPARATION

1. Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling water with a pinch of salt for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped beef bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
4. Lower the heat to medium-low, and in the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Stir in garlic powder and onion powder, cooking for 1 minute to release their aroma.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the ranch seasoning mix. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Return the cooked chicken and beef bacon to the skillet, tossing to coat in the Ranch Alfredo Sauce. Add the cooked pasta and mix well to combine all ingredients.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors of this Bacon Ranch Alfredo dish.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• – Calories: 620 per serving
• – Total Fat: 38g
• – Saturated Fat: 20g
• – Cholesterol: 130mg
• – Sodium: 450mg (low sodium option)
• – Carbohydrates: 42g
• – Protein: 30g

Why Beef Bacon in Alfredo Ranch Chicken Pasta?

Using beef bacon instead of traditional pork bacon in this Alfredo Ranch Chicken Pasta adds a unique smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce. It’s also a great option for those who avoid pork for dietary or cultural reasons, while still delivering that satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.

How to Make a Low Sodium Version

For those seeking low sodium meals that taste good, opt for a low-sodium ranch seasoning mix or make your own blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Additionally, reduce the amount of added salt and rely on the natural flavors of the chicken and beef bacon to shine through in this Ranch Pasta Sauce.

Can You Add a Spicy Kick Like Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, transform this into a Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta by adding 1-2 tsp of Cajun seasoning to the sauce or directly to the chicken while cooking. This small addition creates a bold, spicy twist that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.

Best Pasta Shapes for Creamy Sauces

When making dishes like Ranch Chicken Alfredo, choosing the right pasta shape is key. Fettuccine and penne work best as they hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Rigatoni or farfalle are also great alternatives for trapping the creamy Bacon Ranch Alfredo goodness.

Tips for Meal Prepping Large Family Dinner Ideas

This recipe is ideal for large family dinner ideas for entertaining. To meal prep, cook the chicken and beef bacon ahead of time and store them separately. Prepare the sauce and pasta on the day of serving to maintain freshness, combining everything just before dinner for a stress-free experience.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with Beef Bacon with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the richness of the Ranch Alfredo Sauce, making it a perfect choice among best new dinner recipes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Beef Bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option in this Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with Beef Bacon. It still provides a savory, smoky taste, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Cook it until crispy to maintain the texture contrast in the dish.

How Do I Store Leftovers of Ranch Chicken Alfredo?

Store leftovers of your Ranch Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, this dish works well for prepping ahead, especially for large family dinner ideas for entertaining. Prepare the components separately—cook the chicken and bacon, and make the sauce—then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Is There a Dairy-Free Option for Ranch Alfredo Sauce?

For a dairy-free version of Ranch Alfredo Sauce, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors, and you’ll still enjoy a creamy, satisfying pasta dish.

Savor the rich flavors of this Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta with beef bacon tonight!