Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that combines spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a party, this flavorful casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone. The creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the heat from the buffalo sauce, while the melted cheese adds richness and indulgence to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spicy & Creamy: The buffalo wing sauce provides a spicy kick, while the ranch or blue cheese dressing brings a creamy, cooling contrast.
Cheesy Goodness: With three kinds of cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan—this dish is packed with cheese in every layer.
Easy to Make: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for serving to a crowd.
Perfectly Baked: The top gets beautifully golden and crispy, while the inside remains creamy and comforting.

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) rotini or penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) buffalo wing sauce
1 cup (240ml) ranch or blue cheese dressing
2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Sauté Aromatics:

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the chicken and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Combine Sauces:

Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. Assemble the Bake:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and half of each cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Mix until everything is well coated.

7. Bake:

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheeses.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.

8. Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving

Variations

Extra Heat: For more spice, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture or use a hotter buffalo sauce.
Creamier Texture: Mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the buffalo sauce for an extra creamy texture.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chopped cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
Cheese Swap: Try different cheese combinations like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Parmesan for more depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the dish has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any pasta shape works well. Penne, rotini, fusilli, or even ziti are great choices.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken can save time and still give the dish great flavor.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more buffalo sauce, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

5. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free ranch dressing, non-dairy cheese, and a vegan butter substitute.

6. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

7. Can I add vegetables to the pasta bake?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peppers to the pasta mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

8. Can I use a different kind of dressing?

You can swap the ranch or blue cheese dressing with caesar dressing or a creamy Italian dressing for a different flavor.

9. How can I make this dish more filling?

Add more chicken or serve the pasta bake with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake in a slow cooker and cook it on low for 4-6 hours. Top with cheese and let it melt towards the end.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of both worlds: spicy buffalo chicken and cheesy pasta. This comforting casserole is perfect for feeding a family or serving at a gathering. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a spicy kick, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again. Enjoy it hot out of the oven with your favorite sides for a satisfying, flavorful meal.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a spicy, creamy, and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or game-day meal. Packed with tender chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and three kinds of cheese, this easy-to-make dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the chicken and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine the Sauces

Pour in the buffalo wing sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and half of each cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan).
Mix until everything is well coated.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheeses.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Extra Heat: Add more buffalo sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra spice.
Creamier Texture: Stir in sour cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower or mushrooms.
Cheese Variations: Use pepper jack for spice or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American