Description
A creamy and cheesy pasta dish combined with crispy bacon and ranch seasoning, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserving drippings, and roughly chop the bacon once cooled.
- Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in the bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then cube.
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic. Add the flour, then gradually whisk in the half and half. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, then gently fold in the cooked chicken. Garnish with the chopped bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. Substitute turkey bacon for a healthier option. Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American