Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive Crack Chicken Casserole. Bursting with the savory flavors of crispy bacon, a zesty ranch seasoning blend, and tender chicken, this dish is designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates. It’s the perfect hearty meal for busy weeknights, comforting family dinners, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution. Prepare for a rich and satisfying experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!

This casserole perfectly marries tender pasta with succulent chicken, all enveloped in a rich, tangy, and cheesy sauce. The hint of ranch seasoning elevates the flavor profile, making it truly irresistible. With minimal prep time and a straightforward baking process, this recipe is a lifesaver when you need a delicious and fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect “crack” flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips:

• ▢ 1 ½ cups dry elbow pasta – Elbow pasta is classic, but you can use other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or medium shells.
• ▢ 6 slices bacon, cut into small pieces – Crispy bacon bits are essential for that signature salty crunch. Thick-cut bacon works wonderfully here.
• ▢ 1 white onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory base flavor when sautéed.
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream – Contributes a lovely tang and creaminess to the sauce.
• ▢ 1 cup heavy cream, or half and half – For an extra rich and velvety texture. Half-and-half can be used for a slightly lighter version.
• ▢ 4 oz softened cream cheese – Ensure it’s softened to blend smoothly into the sauce, creating that signature creamy texture.
• ▢ 10 oz can cream of chicken soup – The classic casserole base that adds savory flavor and thickness.
• ▢ 2 ½ tbs ranch seasoning – This is where the “crack” flavor truly comes from! Use a good quality ranch seasoning mix.
• ▢ ½ tsp black pepper – Season to taste, or add more if you prefer a spicier kick.
• ▢ ¼ tsp salt – Adjust based on the saltiness of your bacon and ranch seasoning.
• ▢ 2 cup cooked chicken, I use a rotisserie chicken – Rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick prep, or you can boil and shred chicken breasts.
• ▢ 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar provides a fantastic flavor, but feel free to use a blend like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
• ▢ 3 green onions, sliced – For a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant garnish.

Follow these simple steps to create your mouth-watering Crack Chicken Casserole:

• 1. Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and perfectly.
• 2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. Ensure it’s not overcooked, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• 3. Cook Bacon and Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until they are perfectly crispy. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Set the crispy bacon aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease in the skillet (or add 2 tablespoons of butter if you prefer). Add the diced white onion to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your casserole.
• 4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, heavy cream (or half and half), softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese for a truly creamy sauce.
• 5. Combine All Ingredients: To the bowl with the creamy sauce, add the black pepper, salt, shredded cooked chicken, cooked pasta, sautéed onion, half of the cooked bacon pieces, and half a cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Gently stir all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
• 6. Assemble and Bake: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the entire casserole mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, then scatter the rest of the crispy bacon and the sliced green onions over the cheese. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown and melted.
• 7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly. Garnish with extra fresh green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade, comforting Crack Chicken Casserole!

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