Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta

Combine the spicy, zesty punch of buffalo wings with the creamy comfort of a cheesy casserole in this Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake. This hearty, crowd-pleasing dish is the ultimate weeknight savior, bringing together tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety sauce that balances heat and cool ranch flavor. Topped with a layer of melty mozzarella and cheddar, it bakes to golden perfection, creating a meal that is as satisfying to look at as it is to eat.

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The secret to this recipe's irresistible texture is the blend of heavy cream and sour cream, which creates a rich base that clings to every rotini or penne noodle. As it bakes, the flavors of the ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce deepen, infusing the chicken with a tangy kick. Whether you're serving this for a game day gathering or a busy family dinner, it is guaranteed to become a requested favorite.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
• 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 (1 oz/28 g) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buffalo wing sauce
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (25 g) finely sliced green onions, plus extra for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter, for greasing

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream until smooth.

Step 4

Fold in the cooked chicken, half of the mozzarella cheese, all of the cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and green onions.

Step 5

Add the drained pasta and gently toss until evenly coated.

Step 6

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 8

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra green onions before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For ultimate convenience, substitute rotisserie chicken; it saves time and adds great pre-seasoned flavor to the bake. Ensure you cook the pasta only to al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly while soaking up the creamy sauce in the oven. Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking is crucial, as it allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Tailor the heat level to your preference by adding a pinch of cayenne or topping the bake with sliced jalapeños. For a classic buffalo wing flavor profile, you can swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over the top before serving. Those looking for a different texture can try rotini instead of penne to catch more of the tangy ranch sauce in every bite.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this rich and flavorful pasta bake alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for making sure not a single drop of the buffalo ranch sauce goes to waste. Garnish generously with extra green onions for a fresh, oniony crunch that brightens the entire meal.

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With its perfect balance of spice, cream, and melted cheese, this Creamy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the comforting textures and bold American flavors in every bite!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Portion leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Use a hotter buffalo sauce, add cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture, or top with sliced jalapeños before baking.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and rotini are ideal because their ridges and curves hold the creamy sauce well. Other short pasta like macaroni or fusilli also work.

→ Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

You'll need to cook the chicken first. Either poach, bake, or pan-cook chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred or dice before adding to the pasta.

→ What sides pair well with this?

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli also make excellent accompaniments.