Name: Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Description

This Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender cooked chicken with a rich, cheesy ranch-flavored sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Ideal for a family-friendly main course, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with additional ingredients like bacon or roasted vegetables. Perfect for those who love hearty, flavorful American-style pasta dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)

Protein

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

Seasoning & Garnish

Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux which will thicken the sauce.
Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for about 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Mix in the ranch seasoning until evenly incorporated.
Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained macaroni to the sauce. Stir gently until all components are evenly coated with the creamy ranch cheese sauce.
Season and Serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, stir in crumbled cooked bacon or roasted vegetables.
This dish can be transformed into a baked casserole by topping with breadcrumbs and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Use whole milk or 2% milk for a creamier texture, or substitute with lactose-free milk if desired.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.