Description
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender elbow macaroni, shredded chicken, and a rich blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses flavored with ranch seasoning. This American classic is perfect for a family-friendly meal, offering a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additions
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux without browning.
- Create the cheese sauce: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Season the sauce: Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cheeses: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
- Heat through: Reduce heat to low and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for this recipe, providing tender and flavorful meat.
- For added texture and a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Adjust salt and seasoning according to taste, especially depending on the saltiness of the ranch seasoning mix used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
