Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender pasta with creamy, spicy buffalo flavors and melted cheese for a comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Penne Pasta
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
• 2 Tablespoons Ranch Seasoning Mix
• 1/3 cup Milk
• 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (divided)
• 3 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken
• 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 3 Green Onions (sliced)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13 baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Cook the penne pasta to al dente according to package instructions, then rinse with cold water and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, milk, and 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce until smooth.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked shredded chicken, pasta, and half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Mix everything until evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheeses.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time or substitute shredded turkey for a twist.
• Swap ranch seasoning for blue cheese dressing mix for a different flavor profile.
• Top with crumbled blue cheese for more tangy richness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta mixture in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if needed.

What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?

If you prefer less spice, substitute buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or a mild hot sauce to suit your taste.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender penne pasta, shredded chicken, and a creamy buffalo sauce mixture, all topped with melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses for a spicy, cheesy delight.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 12 ounces Penne Pasta
• 2 Tablespoons Ranch Seasoning Mix

Dairy

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup Milk
• 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

Meat

• 3 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken

Condiments & Sauces

• 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (divided)

Produce

• 3 Green Onions (sliced)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cool water to stop cooking, and set aside.
3. Mix Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, milk, and 1/4 cup of the buffalo sauce until smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Cheese: Add the cooked shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and half of both shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses into the sauce mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
5. Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup buffalo sauce evenly over the top. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Finally, sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving for a fresh finish.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level.
• For extra creaminess, you may add a splash more milk if the sauce feels thick before baking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated well the next day.
• This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Keywords: Buffalo chicken pasta bake, cheesy buffalo chicken casserole, creamy buffalo chicken pasta, spicy pasta bake, comfort food