Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect way to combine your favorite flavors into a creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving something hearty, this recipe will hit the spot.
Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a spicy buffalo sauce, mixed with shredded chicken and gooey cheese. It’s comfort food that’s packed with a punch. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
Comfort Food with a Kick
The Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake brings a new twist to traditional comfort food. With tender pasta enveloped in a spicy buffalo sauce and mixed with shredded chicken, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
This bake is perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. The creamy, cheesy texture creates a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
Creating a mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake requires just a handful of ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the buffalo sauce, which gives the dish its signature heat and vibrant color.
When paired with cream cheese and shredded cheddar, it becomes a luscious, creamy sauce that binds the pasta and chicken together. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of green onions or celery for an added crunch and pop of freshness!
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick. Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then mix it with the spicy buffalo chicken filling.
Once everything is well combined, transfer it to a greased baking dish and top it off with more cheddar cheese for that golden, bubbly finish. The oven does the rest, transforming your mixture into a cheesy masterpiece.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a cozy family dinner, or simply treating yourself during a quiet evening at home, this dish fits the bill.
Its comforting flavors and satisfying textures make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully!
A Cozy Kitchen Experience
Imagine pulling this bubbling dish from the oven, the aroma filling your kitchen and inviting everyone to gather around the table. The rustic baking dish adds to the charm, making the presentation as delightful as the meal itself.
With a scoop missing to reveal the creamy texture inside, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. This dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole serves about six, making it perfect for families or gatherings. Each serving is rich in protein from the chicken and packs a flavor punch thanks to the buffalo sauce.
For those keeping an eye on their diet, this dish offers a balanced meal with approximately 450 calories per serving. To lighten it up, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad to complement the richness of the pasta bake.
The Ultimate Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a spicy buffalo sauce. Topped with melted cheese, it’s creamy, tangy, and downright irresistible, bringing together the bold flavors of buffalo chicken in a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or celery for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or celery if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
