The sound of bubbling cheese and the aroma of smoky bacon filling your kitchen – that’s when you know dinner is about to get seriously good. This baked crack chicken penne has earned its name because one bite leads to another, and another. It’s comfort food that delivers every single time.
Think tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch all melted together with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The magic happens when everything bakes together, creating those golden, bubbly edges we all fight over. It’s like mac and cheese grew up and got a serious upgrade. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been tweaking this recipe for months, experimenting with different cheese blends and herb combinations until I found the perfect balance. My secret ingredient elevates the whole dish in the most unexpected way. I tested it on my pickiest friends – they’re already asking when I’m making it again!
PrintBaked Crack Chicken Penne: Easy Irresistible Recipe
Enjoy a creamy and cheesy Baked Crack Chicken Penne packed with savory flavors. This baked crack chicken penne pasta is an easy crack chicken penne casserole perfect for family meals and potlucks. Savor the cheesy crack chicken penne bake that everyone will love.
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 2 green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit 175 degrees Celsius.
- Prepare the penne pasta as directed on the package until it is al dente then drain well.
- In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese ranch dressing and cheddar cheese until fully combined and smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken bacon bits and green onions then season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Carefully mix the cooked pasta into the cheesy chicken mixture making sure all noodles are coated.
- Spoon the entire mix into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella on top evenly.
- Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a couple of minutes before serving garnish with extra green onions if you like.
Notes
- For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Why This Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta Bake Will Become Your New Obsession
There’s something magical about the way bacon bits mingle with ranch dressing and melted cheese – creating layers of flavor that satisfy every comfort food craving at once. This baked crack chicken penne offers the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and tangy that will make you close your eyes with delight from the first bite.
What I love most is how forgiving this recipe is. The cream cheese base creates an incredibly smooth sauce that coats every piece of penne pasta, while the mozzarella cheese on top turns golden and bubbly. It’s a dish that looks impressive but comes together with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge.
Pro Tip: The green onions add a fresh pop of color and a subtle bite that cuts through the richness – don’t skip them!
Breaking Down Your Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in how each ingredient plays its part. Your softened cream cheese forms the foundation – it should be at room temperature to blend smoothly with the ranch dressing without lumps. The shredded cheddar cheese melts into the creamy base, while the mozzarella on top creates the lovely golden crust we’re after.
Your cooked chicken should be shredded into bite-sized pieces to distribute evenly throughout the pasta. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but any leftover chicken works perfectly. The bacon bits add that smoky crunch that makes this dish so addictive.
| Ingredient | What It Does | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Creates creamy base | Must be softened for smooth mixing |
| Ranch Dressing | Adds tangy flavor | Use your favorite brand |
| Cheddar Cheese | Melts into sauce | Freshly shredded works best |
| Bacon Bits | Smoky crunch | Real bacon beats artificial |
Step-by-Step: How This Easy Crack Chicken Penne Casserole Comes Together
The secret to perfect pasta is cooking it just until al dente – it will finish cooking in the oven and you don’t want mushy noodles. While the penne pasta is cooking, you can prep everything else. This is truly a one-bowl wonder once the pasta is ready.
Start by mixing the cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth. Using a large spoon helps break up any lumps before you add the cheddar cheese. Once you fold in the cooked chicken, bacon bits, and green onions, you’ll see how everything transforms into a gorgeous, creamy mixture.
Note: When folding the pasta into the mixture, be gentle but thorough. Every piece should be coated in that creamy goodness before transferring to your baking dish.
Timing and Temperature Guide
Getting the timing right is key to a perfectly bubbly casserole and avoiding drying out or undercooking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before placing the dish inside – this ensures even cooking from start to finish.
| Step | Time | Visual Cue |
|---|---|---|
| Cook Pasta | 8-10 minutes | Al dente, slight bite |
| Prep Mixture | 5-7 minutes | Smooth and well combined |
| Bake Time | 20-25 minutes | Golden, bubbly edges |
| Rest Time | 5 minutes | Easier to serve |
Creative Twists That Make It Your Own
This ranch bacon cheddar chicken penne is incredibly adaptable to your family’s tastes. Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you like a little heat, or try a blend of Colby Jack for a milder flavor. Adding steamed broccoli into the mix brings color and sneaks in some veggies.
If you’re watching your carb intake, shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles work wonderfully, though be sure to drain them well. Greek yogurt can replace half the cream cheese for a lighter version that still delivers rich creaminess.
Pro Tip: A splash of hot sauce in the cream cheese mixture adds depth without overwhelming heat – even picky eaters won’t notice, but they’ll love the extra layer of flavor.
Serving and Storage Made Simple
This baked crack chicken penne serves six generously, making it perfect for feeding a family or for leftovers on busy weeknights. It reheats beautifully in the microwave – just add a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture.
I love serving this with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. The richness pairs beautifully with something fresh and acidic, like a simple vinaigrette.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Add milk when reheating |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, then reheat |
| Individual Portions | Perfect for meal prep | Microwave 1-2 minutes |
Expert Says
The creamy texture of baked crack chicken penne comes from combining dairy ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream. This not only enhances flavor but also provides essential fats, making it a satisfying dish that balances protein and carbohydrates, perfect for a hearty meal.
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The Long Road to Baked Crack Chicken Penne
After a few too many explosive oven incidents and pasta that turned to mush, I finally nailed this Baked Crack Chicken Penne recipe. Each attempt was a lesson, and the aroma filling the kitchen now is a delicious blend of spices and comfort a true reflection of my journey to perfection.
FAQs ( Baked Crack Chicken Penne )
What are the key ingredients for Baked Crack Chicken Penne?
This dish features chicken, pasta, ranch dressing, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. You can enhance the flavor with crispy bacon and a few seasonings. These elements come together for a creamy and flavorful meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to cover it tightly. Bake it when you’re ready; it might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This meal pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement the rich flavors. Choose sides that balance the creamy nature of the dish.
How do I store leftover Baked Crack Chicken Penne?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help revive creaminess.
Your Kitchen Just Found Its New Favorite
This baked crack chicken penne comes together in just 45 minutes, but the bubbling, golden result tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. You’ll love how the ranch and bacon create incredible flavor pockets throughout every creamy bite. The aroma alone will have everyone wandering into the kitchen before it’s even done.
Here’s a little secret I discovered: swapping half the cheddar for smoked gouda adds a gorgeous depth without changing the comfort factor. Fresh chives work wonderfully instead of green onions, and leftover turkey is just as good as chicken. Store covered in the fridge for up to four days, and reheat with a splash of milk to bring back that silky texture.
I’d love to see how this turns out in your kitchen! Tag me in your photos – there’s something so satisfying about seeing golden, bubbly casseroles fresh from the oven. Does this remind you of any favorite family dinners? Save this recipe for your next potluck or cozy Sunday meal. Trust me, it’ll become one of those dishes everyone asks you to bring.
