Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake – A Spicy, Comforting Family Favorite

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Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of spicy buffalo chicken flavors and comforting pasta, making it a favorite in many households across the United States. This dish combines tender pasta with shredded chicken, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an excellent choice for those who crave the zest of buffalo sauce but also desire the heartiness of a pasta casserole.

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The Origin of Buffalo Chicken

The term “buffalo” in culinary contexts traces back to Buffalo, New York, where the iconic Buffalo wings originated. Traditionally, these are chicken wings tossed in a tangy and spicy cayenne pepper hot sauce, typically served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. Over time, the distinctive flavor profile of Buffalo wings has been adapted into various dishes, including dips, sandwiches, and, of course, pasta bakes.​

Why Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

Combining the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting elements of pasta results in a dish that’s both spicy and soothing. The creamy sauce balances the heat from the buffalo sauce, making it palatable for a wide audience. Moreover, it’s a versatile dish suitable for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.​

Ingredients

To prepare a Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake that serves approximately six people, you’ll need:

• Pasta: 12 ounces of penne or rotini work well, but any short pasta will suffice.​
• Cooked Chicken: 3 cups of shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.​
• Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup of your preferred brand. Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened to room temperature
• Ranch Dressing: ½ cup. This adds a cooling contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce.​
• Shredded Cheese: 2 cups, divided. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar provides both meltiness and flavor.
• Green Onions: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish.​
• Optional: Blue cheese crumbles for an added tangy flavor.​

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.​

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Whisk until smooth.​
   • Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheese.​

3. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.​

4. Assemble the Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).​
   • Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.​
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.​

Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and blue cheese crumbles if desired. Serve warm.​

Variations and Tips

• Protein Alternatives: While chicken is traditional, you can substitute it with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Pasta Choices: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also be used based on dietary needs.

• Cheese Options: For a different flavor profile, consider using Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.

• Custom Dressings: Swap the ranch dressing for a flavorful twist using this homemade chipotle ranch dressing. It adds a smoky kick and deepens the flavor!

• Adding Vegetables: Incorporate veggies like diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli to boost the nutritional content.

• Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of buffalo sauce. Adding a tablespoon of honey can also balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.

​Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty dish that pairs well with lighter sides. Consider serving it with:​

• Salads: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pasta bake.​

• Bread: Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.​

• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a nutritious balance.​

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat:​

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the pasta bake with foil to prevent drying, and heat for about 20 minutes.​

• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.​

Nutritional Information

While exact values can vary based on specific ingredients used, a serving of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake typically provides:​

• Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal​
• Protein: 20-25 grams​
• Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams​
• Fat: 20-25 grams​

For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese, whole grain pasta, and increasing the vegetable content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, bake it as directed, adding an extra 10–15 minutes if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.

2. What pasta works best for a pasta bake?

Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or ziti work great because they hold onto the sauce and don’t overcook easily. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti, which tend to clump or break apart during baking.

3. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

Absolutely! Let the cooked dish cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

4. Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

To dial down the heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with a little extra ranch dressing or cream cheese to mellow it out. You can also try using a mild buffalo sauce or even substitute half the sauce with marinara for a unique twist.

5. What can I use instead of ranch dressing?

If you’re not a fan of ranch, try using blue cheese dressing, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt. Each brings its own flavor and creaminess that complements the dish in different ways.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free version and double-check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are certified gluten-free.

7. What are the best cheeses for this recipe?

Mozzarella and cheddar are the classic combo for melty, flavorful goodness. But you can also add Monterey Jack, provolone, or a bit of pepper jack for added heat.

8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

You can! Mix all the ingredients (except the pasta) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours. Add cooked pasta during the last 30 minutes. Top with cheese, cover, and let it melt before serving.

​Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the spicy

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