Description
Indulge in the spicy and cheesy goodness of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, a comforting dish that combines tender pasta with flavorful buffalo chicken, creamy cheeses, and a hint of tangy dressing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
Cheese Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Additional:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until softened, then add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in buffalo sauce and cream cheese until smooth. Add the dressing and blend. Add the shredded chicken and cook until warmed through.
- Combine ingredients: Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat. Transfer to the baking dish.
- Add cheese: Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with green onions or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra heat, stir in crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp salad or celery sticks on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
