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Crack Chicken Penne - Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Beef Crumbles

This creamy crack chicken penne is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just one pot! With tender chicken, savory beef crumbles, and a rich ranch-infused cream cheese sauce, this dish will become your new go-to weeknight dinner. It's the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and satisfying that both kids and adults will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 oz beef crumbles (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add cubed chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper during cooking.
  3. Stir in the cooked beef crumbles and ranch seasoning mix, coating everything evenly. Cook for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until completely melted and incorporated. Add milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Let the pasta sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot!

Notes

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the hot pasta. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth sauce every time. Don't overcook the penne - it will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Al dente pasta gives the best texture in this creamy dish.