If you’ve been dreaming of a cozy, cheesy, Tex-Mex inspired dinner that brings all the comfort and bold flavors together, this King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender elbow macaroni swimming in a rich blend of zesty tomatoes, creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a whisper of smoky chili spice—it’s like your favorite mac and cheese and classic King Ranch chicken casserole had a delicious baby. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving a soul-soothing meal, this dish truly hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list fool you—these ingredients are simple and straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the irresistible layers of flavor and creamy texture that make this dish unforgettable.
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto all those cheesy, saucy bites.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds that silky richness that makes the veggies and spices sing.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and a subtle crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts aroma and boldness with every mouthwatering bite.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Injects that classic Tex-Mex zing and slight heat.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that binds everything beautifully.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and luscious creaminess for the perfect sauce balance.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: For that smoky warmth that spices up the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and fragrant, it gives a subtle southwestern flair.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Protein-packed and tender, making it hearty and satisfying.
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp and melty, the star of cheesy comfort.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, it perfectly complements the cheddar.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish if you like a little herbal lift.
How to Make King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni just until it is al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. This ensures the pasta maintains a slight bite so it won’t turn mushy after baking. Drain well and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful sauce base.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter to create a luscious foundation. Toss in the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper and cook until softened—about 4 to 5 minutes. This step releases their natural sweetness and softens their texture. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds just until fragrant, awakening the dish with its aromatic punch.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Next, combine the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream directly into the skillet. Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together until it’s wonderfully blended. This sauce is the heart of the dish, delivering creamy, zesty, and spicy notes all at once.
Step 4: Mix in Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese
Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the skillet, folding everything gently together. Then stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, allowing them to melt and coat each tender pasta piece. Every forkful will be silky, cheesy, and satisfyingly indulgent thanks to this layer of gooey goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top off with the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese for that irresistible golden crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese turns beautifully golden. This final step brings everything together, locking in warmth and creating that dreamy cheesy top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top if you love a fresh herbal punch. It brightens the dish with color and aroma, offering a lovely contrast to the rich, creamy sauce underneath.
How to Serve King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is my go-to garnish for this King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe—it adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. A quick sprinkle of diced jalapeños works wonders too if you crave a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
This cheesy casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to balance out the creaminess. Cornbread or warm tortillas are perfect companions for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Need to impress at a potluck or family dinner? Serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. You can also serve the mac and cheese over a bed of fluffy rice for a fun Tex-Mex twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen, making the next-day meal just as satisfying, if not more.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole in portions or whole. Just wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes in the pasta, slightly undercook macaroni when making ahead for freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings covered loosely to retain moisture while melting the cheese perfectly again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce beautifully, penne or rotini also work well because they provide great surface area to cling to the creamy Tex-Mex sauce.
Is rotisserie chicken a good shortcut?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just shred the cooked meat and stir it right in during the final mixing step before baking.
How spicy is this King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?
It has a gentle, mild warmth from the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chili powder. You can easily adjust the spice by adding fresh jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to suit your heat preferences.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives, and swap butter for olive oil, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the classic rich taste we love here.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce mixture a few hours in advance. Keep them stored separately, then combine and bake right before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something indescribably comforting about this King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe that keeps me coming back time and again. It’s the perfect recipe when you want a little bit of everything: cheesy, creamy, meaty, and bursting with Tex-Mex flavor all in one satisfying dish. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy cheeses, tender shredded chicken, and a spicy Tex-Mex flair, baked to golden perfection. A comforting casserole featuring elbow macaroni, bell peppers, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and warming spices, topped with melted cheddar for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Dairy & Cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Protein & Spices
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: To the skillet, add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chili powder, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
- Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese until the cheeses melt and the mixture is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top turns golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a convenient shortcut for shredded cooked chicken.
- Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you like extra heat and spice in your dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick meal.
