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Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole - Creamy, Comforting, and Low-Carb

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds cooked chicken (shredded or cubed; rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
  • 1 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup ranch dressing (thick and low-carb; homemade or a clean store-bought option)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional, boosts ranch flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (for sautéing/roasting veggies)
  • Fresh chives or green onions, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep the pan: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Reserve a tablespoon of bacon fat if you like extra flavor.
  3. Par-cook the veggies: Toss broccoli and cauliflower with butter or olive oil, a big pinch of salt, and pepper. Roast on a sheet pan for 12–15 minutes until just tender but still bright. You want them lightly cooked, not mushy.
  4. Make the creamy ranch base: In a large bowl, whisk ranch dressing, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth. Stir in garlic, onion powder, dill, and paprika. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  5. Add the chicken and bacon: Fold the cooked chicken into the sauce. Stir in half the crumbled bacon. If the mixture seems too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons water or a splash of chicken broth to loosen.
  6. Combine with veggies: Add the roasted broccoli and cauliflower to the bowl. Stir gently to coat everything evenly without breaking up the florets.
  7. Layer the cheeses: Transfer to the baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top. Add the remaining bacon.
  8. Bake to bubbly: Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling. For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  9. Finish and rest: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes so it sets. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions before serving.