Looking for a comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken with the satisfying goodness of pasta? This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect choice for game days, potlucks, or family dinners. The zesty, spicy notes paired with creamy ranch dressing create a delightful explosion of taste that everyone will love.
This recipe is great for using leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It’s simple to put together and can be customized with your favorite pasta shapes or additional veggies. The rich, cheesy top layer makes it a hit, while the ranch drizzle adds that finishing touch of creaminess.
Imagine digging into a warm, cheesy pasta dish that has a hint of spice and a drizzle of ranch dressing on top. It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort food that satisfies your cravings and keeps you coming back for more.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartiness of a pasta bake. This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake seamlessly combines the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken with the satisfying texture of pasta.
The vibrant orange Buffalo sauce envelops tender pasta and shredded chicken, creating a dish that is as colorful as it is delicious.
Adding a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing on top brings the dish together, providing a counterbalance to the spice of the Buffalo sauce. It’s a comforting meal that warms the soul and pleases the palate.
A Flavorful Combination
The magic of this dish lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The pasta serves as a sturdy base, while the shredded chicken offers a protein-packed boost.
The Buffalo wing sauce adds a kick that is unmistakably vibrant, ensuring that every bite is packed with a punch.
To elevate the experience further, a blend of cheeses—mozzarella, blue cheese, and cheddar—melts into a gooey topping, bringing richness to each serving.
Easy to Assemble
One of the best parts about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is how straightforward it is to put together.
Start by cooking your pasta until just al dente, so it can soak up the flavors during baking.
Combine the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and seasonings, and then stir in the pasta. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and let the oven do the work. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is incredibly versatile and is suitable for a variety of occasions.
Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or simply a cozy family dinner, the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to impress.
It can be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked just before serving, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
To finish off your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley adds a delightful pop of color and freshness.
The ranch dressing on top not only complements the flavors but also brings a creamy texture that enhances every bite.
Consider serving this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. It’s a meal that everyone will want to come back for.
Nutritional Information
This hearty meal serves six and provides a satisfying balance of protein and carbohydrates.
With approximately 450 calories per serving, it’s a filling option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to fuel their day while enjoying a flavorful dish.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake features tender pasta coated in a spicy Buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses baked to perfection. The ranch drizzle on top adds a creamy finish that balances the heat, making each bite flavorful and enjoyable.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, half of the ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked pasta until well coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella, blue cheese, and cheddar evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Drizzle the remaining ranch dressing over the top, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
