Friend made this for dinner, and it was a big hit, had to ask for recipe

Chicken bacon ranch casserole is a delightful comfort food that has become a family favorite in our home. It's one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the table with smiles and satisfied tummies. With its creamy ranch flavor, tender chicken, salty bacon, and melted cheese, it's as heartwarming as a midwestern hug. This is the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad and some warm, crusty garlic bread. You could also serve it alongside some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a touch of vibrant color and extra nutrition to your meal. For a special family dinner, consider whipping up some homemade mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious, creamy flavors of the casserole.

Servings: 6

4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups dry pasta (penne or rotini work well)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.

Add the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked pasta to the bowl. Stir until everything is well coated with the creamy ranch mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

For a veggie-packed version, consider adding some steamed broccoli or peas to the casserole mix. If you have picky eaters, you can reduce the amount of ranch seasoning or mix it with some milk to tone down the flavor. You can also make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and soup. For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle some crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter on top before baking. Enjoy experimenting with ingredients and making this dish your own family favorite!