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Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 78 reviews

This Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender pasta with spicy buffalo chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and melty cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it brings together bold flavors and gooey textures for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 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

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy and evenly coated.
  3. Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture: Add the drained pasta to the chicken mixture and stir to combine thoroughly, ensuring all pasta is coated in the sauce.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and then top with the remaining cheeses.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for freshness and color. Serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Adjust the buffalo sauce amount to control the spice level.
  • For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the chicken mixture before baking.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Keywords: Buffalo chicken pasta bake, cheesy pasta bake, buffalo ranch pasta, comfort food, creamy pasta dish

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/ranch-buffalo-pasta-bake-recipe/