Indulge in the Creamy Goodness of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Get ready for an explosion of flavor in every bite with this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake! This comforting and creamy casserole combines the bold taste of spicy buffalo chicken with the indulgence of pasta and melted cheese. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game days, potlucks, or any night when you’re craving something truly satisfying.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Optional: Blue cheese crumbles for topping

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce. Mix everything together with a hand mixer or a whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to incorporate the flavors.

Next, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

Pour the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top it with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the cheddar cheese.

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.

Remove the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and, if desired, blue cheese crumbles. Drizzle with extra ranch dressing and hot sauce for those who like an extra kick of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

To ensure your pasta is cooked just right, be sure to boil it until it’s al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook a bit more in the oven.

Letting the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set, creating a perfectly gooey and delicious casserole.

For variations, you can add vegetables like diced bell peppers or celery to the mix, or try using different cheese blends, such as a spicy pepper jack or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Nutritional Information

A hearty serving of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake provides approximately 525 calories, 36 grams of protein, 41 grams of carbohydrates, and 28 grams of fat. To make it a bit healthier, you can use light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheeses.

Delicious Pairing Suggestions

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp salad or a side of garlic bread. For a beverage, consider a cold beer, a refreshing soda, or a glass of white wine to complement the spicy and creamy flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein options like shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

For a different flavor profile, try swapping the buffalo sauce for a barbecue sauce or a creamy garlic sauce. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this versatile Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. While penne is a popular choice due to its tubular shape that holds sauce well, you can substitute it with other pasta types such as rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just ensure that whatever pasta you choose is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly during the baking process. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you select.

How can I adjust the heat level in my Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

To adjust the heat level of your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, you can modify the amount of buffalo wing sauce you use. Start with a smaller amount, tasting the mixture as you go, and add more until you reach your desired spice level. Additionally, you can mix in some milder sauces (like BBQ sauce) or add ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream to balance out the heat. For those who prefer it spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

To store leftover Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake vegetarian by substituting the chicken with plant-based protein options. Use products like shredded jackfruit, tempeh, or store-bought plant-based chicken substitutes. Additionally, consider incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Make sure to check the ingredients in your buffalo sauce to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences, as some sauces may contain animal products.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Crack Chicken Penne
• Creamy Steak Pasta

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print