When comfort food cravings hit, there’s nothing quite like a cheesy, creamy, and savory dish that combines all the flavors you love. Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a perfect example. This irresistible meal is a combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender macaroni, hearty chicken, crispy bacon, and the zesty flavor of ranch dressing. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding the family on a cozy night in or looking to serve a satisfying dish for a get-together, Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To make Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, you’ll need a mix of simple ingredients that come together to create an indulgent, flavorful dish. The base of this recipe includes elbow macaroni, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, all of which contribute to the rich, creamy texture. The shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses give this dish its signature cheesy goodness, while the ranch dressing mix brings that unmistakable tangy flavor. Add in the chicken, turkey bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese on top, and you’ve got a dish that’s absolutely packed with flavor.
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking while it bakes. Set this dish aside.
Next, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once it’s tender, drain the water and set the macaroni aside to cool slightly while you prepare the creamy cheese mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and the ranch dressing mix. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The cream cheese and sour cream help create that indulgent creamy texture, while the ranch dressing adds a burst of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
Once the cheese mixture is ready, stir in the cooked, chopped chicken and crumbled turkey bacon. These proteins add heartiness to the dish, giving it that extra savory punch. Make sure the chicken and bacon are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Now it’s time to bring the macaroni into the mix. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated. The creamy mixture should completely cover the pasta, ensuring every bite is as rich and cheesy as possible.
At this point, pour in the milk to loosen the mixture just a bit, making it easier to stir and ensuring a smooth, creamy texture. Give it one last stir to combine everything evenly.
Now, transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Top it off with the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese, which will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust while baking.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the edges should be slightly crispy for that perfect combination of creamy and crunchy.
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra bacon bits if desired, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken. You can either cook and shred the chicken yourself or use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
If you prefer a bit more crunch, feel free to sprinkle some extra crumbled bacon on top before serving.
The combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese gives a balanced flavor and melt, but feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like gouda or Monterey Jack for added complexity.
To make the dish a bit lighter, you can swap out the cream cheese for a reduced-fat version or use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
You can also make the dish in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, serve it with a side salad made with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, also make a great side and add a bit of healthy balance to the richness of the mac and cheese. If you’re craving more comfort food, serve it alongside garlic bread or cornbread for a filling, hearty meal.
Storage
Leftovers of Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan on storing it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or bake it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through and the cheese is bubbling again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar will give it the best flavor, but other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add variety and extra creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up until the baking step, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes! Regular bacon works just as well and will add a bit more flavor and crispness. Make sure to crumble it into small pieces before adding it to the dish.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. With its hearty chicken, crispy bacon, and rich cheese sauce, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and savory dish packed with chicken, bacon, and the flavors of ranch, perfect for a cozy family meal or gathering.
Ingredients
• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10.75-oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (1-oz) packet ranch dressing mix
• 1½ cups cooked, chopped chicken
• ½ cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2️⃣ Cook the macaroni according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
3️⃣ In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and ranch dressing mix.
4️⃣ Stir in the chopped chicken and crumbled bacon.
5️⃣ Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir to combine. Pour in the milk and mix well.
6️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
7️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Enjoy this cheesy comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite