Table of Contents
Introduction
If you love bold flavors, creamy textures, and a little kick of heat, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is about to become your new favorite dinner. This dish combines the best of both worlds—comforting baked pasta and the irresistible spiciness of buffalo chicken.
Picture this: tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy buffalo sauce, loaded with shredded chicken, and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights, busy weeknights, or a cozy weekend meal.
One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, restaurant-quality meal on the table without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.
If you’ve tried our Buffalo Chicken Dip or Cheesy Baked Ziti, you’re going to love this pasta bake. It has all the classic buffalo wing flavors but with a comforting, cheesy twist. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive in!
What is Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?
The name says it all! This dish is a fusion of two favorites—buffalo chicken and baked pasta. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if buffalo wings and mac & cheese had a delicious baby, this is it!
Buffalo sauce, known for its spicy, tangy goodness, is the star of this dish, coating every bite of tender pasta and juicy chicken. And since the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, this easy, cheesy bake is bound to win over your entire family.
So why settle for plain pasta when you can have it loaded with flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
1. Packed with Flavor
This dish has it all—spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, gooey melted cheese, and juicy shredded chicken. Each bite is a perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
2. Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make
Instead of ordering takeout, you can whip up this pasta bake using pantry staples and leftover chicken. It’s much cheaper than dining out and just as satisfying!
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe makes great leftovers! You can prep it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Just reheat and dig in.
If you love easy, flavor-packed recipes, this one’s a must-try. Now, let’s get into the details!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Quick Overview
This recipe is super simple: cook the pasta, mix it with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and cheese, then bake until bubbly. The result? A creamy, cheesy, spicy pasta bake that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Key Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
- Pasta – Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best.
- Shredded Chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Buffalo Sauce – Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice.
- Creamy Dressing – Ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the heat.
- Cheese – A mix of cheddar and mozzarella for gooey goodness.
- Cream Cheese – Adds extra creaminess.
- Green Onions & Blue Cheese Crumbles – Optional, but great for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the Sauce – In a large bowl, combine buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Combine Everything – Add shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and half the cheese to the sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish – Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch dish.
- Add Cheese & Bake – Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve – Top with green onions and blue cheese crumbles if desired. Enjoy!
What to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake With
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Side Salad – A crisp green salad balances the richness.
- Celery & Carrot Sticks – A nod to classic buffalo wings!
Top Tips for Perfecting Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
- Adjust the Heat – Add more buffalo sauce for extra spice or reduce it for a milder version.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Make it Healthier – Use whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a game-changer for quick, satisfying meals. It’s spicy, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.
Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
