Description

This Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake combines tender pasta, succulent shredded chicken, and a creamy buffalo ranch sauce, all baked to cheesy perfection. It’s a flavorful, comforting dish that brings together spicy buffalo heat with cool ranch creaminess, topped with gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Sauces and Dairy

1 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Seasonings and Garnish

1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to cool slightly.
Make the Buffalo Ranch Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for balanced flavor.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Pour the buffalo ranch sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top to form a cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, broil the dish for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake!

Notes

Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add hot sauce to taste.
To make ahead, assemble the bake and refrigerate, then add extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
Gluten-free pasta can be used to adapt this recipe for gluten sensitivities.
Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy cheese topping.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: buffalo chicken pasta bake, ranch buffalo pasta, baked pasta, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, easy dinner, weeknight meal