If you love bold flavors, creamy cheese, and a hint of heat, this Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or potluck dinners, this dish is packed with the rich, tangy taste of buffalo sauce, balanced by smooth cream cheese and ranch dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time and just 20 minutes in the oven make this a go-to weeknight meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Buffalo chicken fans will love this cheesy, spicy twist on a pasta bake.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ¾ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup hot sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken (boiled or rotisserie)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 pieces chives, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Strainer
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing
- Oven preheated to 375°F
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, as per the package instructions. Drain and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, and the drained pasta to the sauce. Mix well until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Bake
Grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the pasta mixture evenly into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake
Place the dish in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve hot.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicier, increase the hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the hot sauce and add more ranch.
- Make It Creamier: Substitute heavy cream for a portion of the ranch dressing for an extra-rich texture.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of boiling your own.
- Swap the Pasta: While penne works best, rotini, rigatoni, or macaroni can be used instead.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread – Helps scoop up the cheesy goodness.
- Side Salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Celery & Carrot Sticks – Mimics classic buffalo chicken wing sides.
- Chilled Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing – For dipping or drizzling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda for a fun twist.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild-to-moderate heat level, but you can adjust the spice by increasing or decreasing the hot sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cream cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower or chickpeas for a meatless version.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, making it a must-try meal for buffalo chicken lovers. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a game day feast, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
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