Dump-and-Bake Ranch Chicken Pasta

Introduction

Dump-and-Bake Ranch Chicken Pasta is the ultimate no-fuss comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, and packed with ranch flavor, all made in a single baking dish. True to its name, there’s no pre-cooking, no draining pasta, and no complicated steps. You simply dump everything into the dish, bake, and enjoy a rich, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

What makes this recipe such a weeknight hero is its simplicity and reliability. The pasta cooks directly in the oven, soaking up the creamy ranch-seasoned sauce while the chicken turns tender and juicy. As it bakes, the flavors meld together into a cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare.

This dish is perfect for busy families, beginner cooks, or anyone who wants a hearty meal without standing over the stove. It’s customizable, reheats well, and makes generous portions—ideal for leftovers or meal prep. If you love creamy pasta bakes and easy dinners that always deliver, Dump-and-Bake Ranch Chicken Pasta deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

12 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup milk or heavy cream

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: cooked bacon bits or chopped parsley for topping

Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the baking dish. Add the raw chicken pieces on top. Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix and black pepper evenly over everything.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Butter

Pour chicken broth and milk (or cream) evenly over the pasta and chicken. Gently press pasta down so it’s mostly submerged. Dot the top with butter pieces.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

Remove foil, stir gently, and sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta: Add cooked crumbled bacon before serving.

Spicy Ranch Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Veggie Ranch Bake: Add broccoli, peas, or spinach.

Extra Creamy Version: Use heavy cream instead of milk.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and adjust liquid as needed.

Cooking Notes

Pasta should be mostly submerged to cook evenly.

Cut chicken into uniform pieces for consistent doneness.

Keep dish tightly covered during first bake to trap steam.

Sauce thickens as it rests after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Dump-and-Bake Ranch Chicken Pasta hot with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with lighter sides.

Tips

Stir halfway through baking if pasta edges look dry.

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.

Let rest before serving for best texture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

50–55 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 520

Protein: 34g

Sodium: 760mg

FAQs

Do I really not need to cook the pasta first?
Correct—the pasta cooks fully in the oven.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add it after the first bake since it’s already cooked.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble ahead and bake when ready.

Why is my pasta still firm?
Cover tightly and add a splash of broth if needed, then bake longer.

Conclusion

Dump-and-Bake Ranch Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want a creamy, comforting dinner without the extra work. With tender chicken, flavorful ranch sauce, and cheesy baked pasta all made in one dish, this recipe delivers big comfort with minimal effort. Easy, reliable, and family-approved, it’s a dinner you’ll turn to again and again. 🍝🧀🍗

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