Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta

Buffalo chicken ranch pasta is a bold and creamy dish that combines tender pasta, spicy buffalo chicken, and tangy ranch dressing for a flavorful, comforting meal. Topped with cheese and baked to perfection, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Combines spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors in one dish.
• Easy to make: Quick to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or served as a hearty side.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
• Cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is a great option)
• Buffalo sauce (your favorite brand)
• Ranch dressing
• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, combine buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add chicken and pasta:
   • Stir the cooked chicken into the sauce, then add the drained pasta. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
4. Assemble the dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions or parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Blue cheese twist: Replace ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing, and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based chicken or roasted vegetables as a substitute for chicken.
• Healthier version: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and low-fat cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked pasta dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce well.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or leftover grilled chicken work perfectly.

4. What buffalo sauce should I use?

Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice, but any brand you enjoy will work.

5. Can I make it less spicy?

Use less buffalo sauce or mix it with additional ranch dressing for a milder flavor.

6. How do I make it cheesier?

Add more mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the sauce and topping.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, diced bell peppers, celery, or spinach are great additions to this dish.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Ensure the sauce fully coats the pasta, and cover with foil while baking if needed.

9. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes, simply serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a quicker version.

10. What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or celery sticks for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Buffalo chicken ranch pasta is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this easy-to-make crowd-pleaser!

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