Description
Indulge in the creamy, flavorful goodness of Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a rich, ranch-infused cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, add milk, cream, ranch seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until thickened.
- Add Cheese and Chicken: Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, chicken, and macaroni.
- Prepare Topping: Combine crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan.
- Bake: Pour mixture into baking dish, top with cracker mixture, and bake until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Try adding steamed broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
