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Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Food Delight

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a creamy and flavorful Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese, featuring tender chicken, rich cheeses, and a hint of ranch dressing. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
  3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want the starch to help the cheese sauce adhere.
  4. In the same pot used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat.
  5. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be bubbly and slightly golden.
  6. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  8. Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  9. Stir in the ranch dressing until fully incorporated into the cheese sauce.
  10. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  11. Fold in the cooked chicken, ensuring it is well distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
  12. At this point, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  13. If you prefer a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  14. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  15. Set aside the breadcrumb mixture for later use.
  16. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  17. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  18. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  19. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
  20. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
  21. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

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Find it online: https://www.chefstrawberry.com/chicken-ranch-mac-and-cheese/