Name: Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta (al dente); 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup cream cheese (softened); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup ranch dressing; 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.25 cup green onions (sliced); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing or greasing the baking dish); salt and pepper (to taste)

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If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and wrapped in creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Combining tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce with luscious cream cheese and a blend of melty cheddar and mozzarella, this baked pasta is comfort food elevated. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing meal for game day, delivering just the right amount of spice balanced by rich, creamy textures. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Top Reasons to Make Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Flavor Explosion: The zesty buffalo sauce combined with creamy cheeses creates a mouthwatering taste that hits all the right notes.
Simple Ingredients: No need for complicated shopping lists — you likely have most of these staples on hand already.
Family-Friendly: Even those who aren’t huge fans of spicy food can enjoy this dish thanks to the creamy ranch and cheese mellowing the heat.
Meal Prep Winner: Make it ahead and reheat for an effortless lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite veggies, swap cheeses, or add extra protein for a personalized twist.
One-Dish Clean-Up: Baked casseroles mean less mess and more time to relax after cooking.

What You’ll Gather

8 oz penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto that spicy sauce.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
1 cup buffalo sauce – pick your preferred brand or homemade version.
1 cup cream cheese, softened – adds creaminess and richness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar works beautifully here.
1/2 cup ranch dressing – cools down the heat and adds tang.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, stretchy cheese pull.
1/4 cup green onions, sliced – fresh garnish with a mild bite.
Salt and pepper to taste – enhances all the flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing or greasing the baking dish.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large pot – for boiling the pasta.
Colander – to drain the pasta.
Mixing bowl – to combine the chicken and sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring everything together.
Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – to bake the pasta evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes.

Make Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain thoroughly using a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Stir until the cream cheese has fully incorporated and everything is evenly coated with spicy goodness.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture, then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to distribute all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the cheesy buffalo chicken pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for a golden, bubbly finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Fit It to Your Goals

For Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or spinach before baking to boost nutrition.
Lower Heat: Use mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount for a gentler kick.
More Protein: Double the chicken or add cooked bacon bits for a heartier meal.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese and shredded cheeses with plant-based alternatives.
Meal Prep: Portion into airtight containers to enjoy throughout the week.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Mushy Pasta: Avoid overcooking your penne; drain as soon as it’s al dente to keep texture firm.
Dry Casserole: Don’t skimp on the sauces; the cream cheese, ranch, and buffalo sauce all help keep it moist.
Uneven Cheese Melt: Spread cheese evenly on top and use shredded cheese for quicker melting.
Too Spicy: Add more ranch dressing or cream cheese to balance the heat.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze it before baking; just cover tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Common Qs About Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?

Absolutely! If using fresh chicken breast, cook it thoroughly by boiling, baking, or sautéing, then shred it before mixing with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients. This ensures the chicken is tender and fully cooked in the casserole.

What type of buffalo sauce works best for this recipe?

Any good-quality buffalo sauce will do, whether store-bought or homemade. Choose one that balances heat and tanginess according to your preference. Mild to medium heat levels work well for most palates and can be adjusted by adding more or less sauce.

Can I substitute penne for another pasta shape?

Yes! While penne holds the sauce beautifully, other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or cavatappi also work well. Just make sure to cook them al dente to maintain texture after baking.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the spice, use a mild buffalo sauce or decrease the amount used. Adding extra ranch dressing or cream cheese to the mix can also tame the heat without sacrificing flavor.

Don’t Miss These

Looking for a creamy, spicy dip? Try the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip for a quick appetizer packed with flavor.
If you love baked dishes, the Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole is another comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a game-changer when it comes to quick, flavorful weeknight dinners. The creamy textures paired with the spicy buffalo sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re a buffalo sauce fanatic or just looking for a new pasta bake to add to your rotation, this recipe hits the spot every single time. Serve it up with a simple green salad or some crunchy celery sticks for a balanced plate that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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