If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines spicy buffalo flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness, then this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. This recipe is perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to game-day parties or even a potluck showstopper. The layers of tender penne pasta, juicy shredded chicken, bold buffalo sauce, and melted cheese create a dish that’s hard to resist.

Buffalo chicken flavor has become a culinary classic in recent years, loved for its combination of tangy heat and buttery richness. From buffalo wings to dips, this flavor profile is endlessly versatile. In this recipe, we’re bringing that crowd-pleasing tanginess to a hearty pasta bake that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just love creamy pasta dishes, this bake has something for everyone.

This dish also comes with plenty of customization options, making it suitable for different preferences. Want to make it spicier? Use extra buffalo sauce. Need a milder version for the kids? Tone it down with more cream cheese or swap in a milder sauce. This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, ensuring you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation.

Learn more about the history of Buffalo Sauce to understand why this iconic flavor works so well in various dishes, from chicken wings to cheesy bakes like this one. Ready to dive in? Keep reading to see why this pasta bake is destined to be your next favorite meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients like penne pasta, shredded chicken, and mozzarella cheese, this dish comes together in no time.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing creates a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that coats every bite.
Customizable for Every Occasion: Adjust the spice level, swap the cheeses, or even make it vegetarian to suit your needs.
Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day and is freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal prep.

For a deeper dive into cheesy pasta recipes, check out this collection of Cheesy Pasta Bakes for even more inspiration!

Ingredients Breakdown

The key to a delicious Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dish’s signature creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavor profile. Let’s break down the ingredients to help you better understand their importance and possible substitutions.

Pasta Selection: Choosing the Right Type

The base of this dish is penne pasta, which is perfect for holding the creamy buffalo sauce in its hollow center. Its sturdy texture also stands up well to baking, ensuring the pasta doesn’t become mushy.

Why Penne Works: Its ridges and tubular shape trap the sauce, creating flavorful bites.
Alternatives: If you don’t have penne, rigatoni, ziti, or rotini work just as well. These shapes also hold sauce effectively and add a similar texture to the dish.

Pro Tip: Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions to prevent overcooking during baking. For more details on this type of pasta, visit Penne Pasta to learn why it’s a top choice for baked dishes.

Protein: The Role of Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is the heart of this pasta bake, providing both protein and texture. It’s tender, flavorful, and absorbs the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Easy Options: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience, or shred cooked chicken breasts or thighs.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded turkey works well. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, or even tofu.

For quick prep tips, check out these Rotisserie Chicken Recipes that save time without sacrificing flavor.

The Sauce: Buffalo Flavor Meets Creamy Cheeses

The sauce is where the magic happens. The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing creates a tangy, spicy, and velvety coating for the pasta and chicken.

Buffalo Sauce: This spicy, tangy sauce is the star of the dish. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance. For more about this iconic condiment, check out the history of Buffalo Sauce.
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and helps balance the spice of the buffalo sauce. Soften it before mixing for a smooth texture.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Both options complement the buffalo flavor. Ranch dressing provides a mild creaminess, while blue cheese dressing adds a bold tanginess. Choose based on your personal preference.

Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out without diluting the flavor.

Cheese Choices: Melting into Gooey Perfection

Cheese plays a starring role in the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, adding richness, creaminess, and that irresistible gooey texture. The combination of mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese creates a balance of stretchy texture and sharp flavor. Let’s explore why these cheeses work so well together and the options for customization.

Mozzarella Cheese: The Stretchy Star

Mozzarella is known for its exceptional melting qualities, creating that signature gooey and stretchy layer in baked dishes. It has a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the tangy buffalo sauce, making it a perfect complement.

Why Mozzarella? Its creamy consistency enhances the richness of the dish while balancing the bold flavors of the buffalo sauce.
Alternatives: For a bit of spice, swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese. If you prefer a creamier texture, provolone is a great option.

Learn more about the characteristics of Mozzarella Cheese and why it’s a top choice for baked pasta dishes.

Cheddar Cheese: Bold and Flavorful

Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy kick to the dish, balancing the mildness of the mozzarella and complementing the heat from the buffalo sauce.

Why Cheddar? Its bold flavor shines through in every bite, enhancing the overall taste of the pasta bake.
Alternatives: For a milder flavor, try Colby Jack cheese. For a stronger tang, sharp white cheddar works beautifully.

Pro Tips for Cheese Success

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and avoids the anti-caking agents found in pre-packaged varieties.
Add extra cheese on top if you want a thicker, golden-brown crust after baking.

Looking for more cheesy inspiration? Check out this collection

Optional Garnishes: Finishing Touches

The right garnishes can take your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake to the next level by adding freshness, flavor, and texture. While the pasta bake is delicious on its own, a few thoughtful toppings can make it even more enticing and visually appealing. Here are some garnish options to consider:

Green Onions: A Fresh Pop of Flavor

Chopped green onions add a bright, mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the dish. They also bring a fresh crunch and a burst of color, making the pasta bake more visually appealing.

Sprinkle the green onions on top right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
If you’re out of green onions, chopped parsley or cilantro can also work as a garnish.

Learn more about Green Onions and their versatile uses in cooking.

Crumbled Blue Cheese (Optional)

For fans of bold, tangy flavors, crumbled blue cheese is the perfect topping. It complements the buffalo sauce with its signature sharpness and creamy texture.

Add the crumbled blue cheese after baking so it retains its texture and flavor.
If blue cheese isn’t your preference, consider grated Parmesan for a nutty, salty finish.

Other Garnish Ideas

Jalapeños: For those who love heat, add thinly sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle a pinch on top for added spice.
Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.

Pro Tip: If you’re serving this dish at a party or potluck, let guests customize their toppings by setting up a small garnish bar with these options!

Preparing the Pasta

The foundation of any great pasta bake starts with properly cooked pasta. Getting this step right ensures that your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake has the perfect texture to soak up the creamy, spicy sauce while still holding its shape during baking. Here’s how to prepare your penne pasta to perfection:

Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite.
Why al dente? The pasta will continue to cook in the oven as it bakes, so starting with al dente pasta prevents it from becoming too soft or mushy.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Cooking

Use Plenty of Water: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Adding salt enhances the flavor of the pasta, ensuring it doesn’t taste bland.
Stir to Prevent Sticking: Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to keep the pieces from sticking together.
Drain and Cool: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly and toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from clumping. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as this can wash away the starches that help the sauce adhere.

For more details on different pasta types and cooking methods, visit this detailed guide on Penne Pasta.

Pro Tip: If you’re prepping this dish ahead of time, you can cook the pasta and toss it with a small amount of olive oil, then store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble the bake.

Making the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

The buffalo chicken mixture is the heart of this dish, delivering the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors. Preparing it is quick and easy, and it’s where all the bold flavors come together to coat the pasta and create a cohesive dish. Here’s how to make it:

Combining the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

Shredded Chicken: Use pre-cooked shredded chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, to save time. Ensure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
Buffalo Sauce: Add 1 cup of buffalo sauce, adjusting the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer more heat, consider adding an extra tablespoon or two.
Cream Cheese: Soften 4 ounces of cream cheese to make mixing easier. The cream cheese adds richness to balance the heat from the buffalo sauce.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Add ½ cup of your preferred dressing. Ranch dressing provides a mild, creamy flavor, while blue cheese dressing adds tangy depth for those who love bold flavors.

Mixing Tips

Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy buffalo mixture.
If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up slightly, ensuring the sauce can easily coat the pasta.

Pro Tip: For even more flavor, consider stirring in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder for additional seasoning.

Why This Mixture Works

This combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and dressing strikes a balance between heat and creaminess. The shredded chicken acts as a sponge, soaking up the sauce and creating flavorful bites in every forkful. For additional insights on Buffalo Sauce, check out its history and versatility here

Assembling the Pasta Bake

Assembling your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is where all the magic comes together. This step combines layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Follow these steps to assemble the dish perfectly:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick spray or a thin layer of butter. This prevents the pasta from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked al dente penne pasta to the mixing bowl with the prepared buffalo chicken mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy, spicy sauce.
If needed, adjust the consistency of the mixture by adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to ensure the sauce coats the pasta evenly.

Step 3: Create the Layers

Layering is key to creating that perfect baked pasta texture and flavor. Follow these steps:

First Layer: Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the first layer. This helps lock in the creamy sauce and adds gooeyness to the dish.
Second Layer: Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, spreading it out to cover the first layer evenly.
Top It Off: Finish with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. This combination creates a golden, bubbly crust once baked.

Step 4: Optional Additions

For extra heat, drizzle a small amount of buffalo sauce over the top layer before baking.
If you enjoy a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese layer for added texture.

Why Layering Matters

Layering ensures that the buffalo chicken mixture and cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the dish, giving you balanced flavors in every bite. It also helps prevent the cheese from overwhelming the top layer while allowing the sauce to remain creamy inside.

For inspiration on other cheesy pasta bakes, explore more ideas on Cheesy Pasta Bakes.

Baking to Perfection

Now that your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is assembled and ready to go, it’s time to bake it to golden, bubbly perfection. This step ensures that all the flavors meld together while creating a cheesy, slightly crispy topping that makes this dish irresistible. Follow these simple steps to bake your pasta bake perfectly:

Step 1: Bake the Dish

Place the assembled baking dish in your preheated oven (375°F or 190°C).
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 2: Check for Doneness

The dish is ready when the cheese on top is fully melted, bubbly, and has a slight golden-brown color.
To ensure the bake is heated through, stick a fork or knife into the center to check if it feels hot.

Step 3: Let it Rest

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop out portions without the layers falling apart.

Pro Tip: If you want a crispier top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.

Troubleshooting Tips

Too dry? If the pasta bake looks dry after baking, drizzle a little warm buffalo sauce or add an extra spoonful of ranch dressing on top before serving.
Not golden enough? Extend the baking time by a few minutes or broil the top for more color.

For more general baking tips, explore helpful ideas on Baking Tips to ensure your baked dishes always turn out perfect.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is now golden, bubbly, and ready to be enjoyed. But what’s the best way to serve it, and what can you pair it with to make the meal even more satisfying? Here are some serving tips and pairing ideas to help elevate this dish to a full, well-rounded meal.

How to Serve

Portion Sizes: Use a large serving spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates. The creamy layers of pasta, chicken, and cheese will stay intact if the bake has been allowed to rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven.
Family Style: Place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves. This makes it a great option for casual dinners or parties.
Toppings Bar: Set up a small toppings bar with extra green onions, crumbled blue cheese, ranch dressing, or buffalo sauce so guests can customize their plates.

Side Dishes to Pair with Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

This rich and hearty dish pairs well with lighter, fresher sides to balance the bold flavors. Consider these options:

Garlic Bread
- A crusty piece of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can serve store-bought bread or make your own with butter, garlic, and parsley toasted on a baguette.
Crisp Green Salad
- A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds brightness and crunch to the meal. Toss the salad with a simple vinaigrette to keep it light.
- Try this dish with dressings that complement the buffalo sauce, such as ranch or a lemon-based dressing.
Roasted Vegetables
- Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or brussels sprouts add a nutritious element to the meal while providing a slightly smoky, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the creamy pasta bake.
Celery and Carrot Sticks
- Keep it classic by pairing the pasta bake with celery and carrot sticks—just like you would with buffalo wings. Serve them on the side with a small bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Beverage Pairings

Beer: A cold, light lager or wheat beer is a classic pairing with buffalo flavors. The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of the dish.
Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea works well as a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
Sparkling Water: Add a splash of lime to sparkling water for a light, fizzy drink to cleanse your palate between bites.

Occasions to Serve This Dish

Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare and perfect for a cozy family meal.
Game Day Parties: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with beer and finger foods.
Potlucks or Gatherings: It travels well and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for sharing with friends.

For even more dinner inspiration, check out this collection of Comfort Food Recipes to find other satisfying dishes that pair well with bold flavors like buffalo chicken

Pro Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Creating the perfect Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is all about nailing the flavors, textures, and consistency. These tips will ensure your dish turns out amazing every time, whether you’re making it for the first time or tweaking it to your liking.

1. Use Pre-Shredded Chicken to Save Time

Rotisserie chicken is a game-changer for this recipe. It’s flavorful, tender, and requires minimal prep. Simply shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.
Alternatively, you can cook and shred boneless chicken breasts or thighs. A quick poach in chicken broth will keep the meat moist and flavorful.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

If you’re worried about it being too spicy, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and replace some of it with extra cream cheese or ranch dressing.
For spice lovers, drizzle additional buffalo sauce over the top before baking or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

3. Prevent Dryness

Overcooking the pasta or skimping on the sauce can lead to a dry bake. Be sure to:
- Cook the pasta al dente so it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Use enough sauce to fully coat the pasta and chicken mixture. A splash of milk or chicken broth can help thin out the sauce if needed.

4. Shred Cheese Freshly for the Best Results

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly because it doesn’t contain anti-caking agents.
Use a mix of mozzarella for gooeyness and cheddar for bold flavor.

5. Add Layers for Even Distribution

Layering the pasta mixture and cheese ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and gooey melted cheese. Skipping this step could result in uneven flavors.

6. Make It Ahead of Time

This dish is perfect for meal prep or busy evenings:
- Assemble the pasta bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- You can also freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

7. Broil for a Golden Finish

For a crispy, golden-brown topping, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

8. Experiment with Add-Ins

Customize your pasta bake by mixing in extras like:
- Diced bacon or cooked sausage for added richness.
- Chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for a healthier twist.
- Jalapeños or green chilies for extra spice.

For more inspiration and tips on cooking with buffalo sauce, explore the wide range of Buffalo Sauce Recipes.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking to cater to specific dietary needs, adapt the spice level, or add extra flavor, there are countless ways to customize this recipe. Below are some of the most popular variations and adjustments.

1. Make It Vegetarian

You don’t have to skip out on this delicious pasta bake if you’re vegetarian. Simply replace the shredded chicken with plant-based ingredients or hearty vegetables.

Substitute Ideas:
- Roasted cauliflower florets add a tender, smoky element.
- Chickpeas are a great source of protein and hold up well in the creamy sauce.
- Use firm tofu, marinated in buffalo sauce, for a protein-packed alternative.
Add extra veggies like sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for even more flavor and texture.

2. Kid-Friendly Version

For a milder, kid-approved pasta bake, tone down the heat and focus on creamy, cheesy goodness.

Replace half (or all) of the buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or a mild wing sauce.
Add extra cheddar cheese to make the dish more comforting and appealing to younger taste buds.

3. Gluten-Free Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

This dish can easily be made gluten-free with a few simple swaps:

Use a gluten-free pasta variety such as rice pasta or chickpea pasta. These options retain a great texture and work well with the creamy sauce.
Double-check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free (most brands have gluten-free options available).

4. Dairy-Free or Vegan Option

For a dairy-free or vegan version of this dish, substitute the creamy elements with plant-based alternatives:

Use dairy-free cream cheese, such as a cashew or almond-based variety.
Replace mozzarella and cheddar with vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Swap the ranch dressing for a dairy-free or homemade vegan version.

5. Spice It Up

For spice lovers, take the heat to the next level:

Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the buffalo chicken mixture.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top of the pasta bake before it goes into the oven.
Drizzle extra buffalo sauce over each serving.

6. Add a Crunchy Topping

For those who enjoy a bit of texture, consider adding a crunchy topping to your pasta bake:

Mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and sprinkle it over the top before baking.
For added flavor, mix in Parmesan cheese or garlic powder with the breadcrumbs.
Panko breadcrumbs work best for a lighter, crispier finish.

7. Make It a One-Pan Dish

Save time on cleanup by turning this into a one-pan meal:

Use an oven-safe skillet to mix the pasta, sauce, and chicken, then top with cheese and bake directly in the same pan.

8. Incorporate Extra Vegetables

For a more nutritious twist, incorporate additional vegetables:

Add cooked broccoli, diced bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potatoes.
Stir in spinach or kale at the last minute before baking to add greens without overwhelming the dish.

9. Use Alternative Proteins

Don’t have chicken on hand? No problem! Substitute the chicken with other protein sources:

Shredded turkey is a great choice, especially after holidays.
Ground chicken or turkey can also work as an alternative—simply cook it beforehand and mix it with the buffalo sauce.
For seafood lovers, cooked shrimp adds an interesting and flavorful twist to this dish.

For even more creative ideas, check out this collection of Comfort Food Recipes for additional inspiration on how to customize your pasta bake.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the great things about this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Proper storage and reheating techniques will keep your dish tasting just as delicious as when it came out of the oven. Follow these tips to ensure the best results.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigeration:
- Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of baking.
- The pasta bake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- This dish freezes well, whether baked or unbaked.
- To freeze an unbaked dish: Assemble the pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To freeze leftovers: Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers or bags. This makes reheating quick and convenient.

How to Reheat the Pasta Bake

Reheating your pasta bake properly ensures it retains its creamy, cheesy texture without drying out or becoming overcooked.

Reheating in the Oven:
- Best for large portions or an entire casserole dish.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Heat for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispier top, uncover the dish for the last 5 minutes.
Reheating in the Microwave:
- Ideal for single servings.
- Place the pasta bake in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
- Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the dish is evenly warmed.
Reheating from Frozen:
- For unbaked frozen pasta bake: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- For frozen leftovers: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave using the methods above.

Tips to Prevent Dryness During Reheating

Add a splash of milk, chicken broth, or even a little extra buffalo sauce to the dish before reheating to restore moisture.
Be careful not to overheat the dish, as this can cause the pasta to become mushy and the sauce to lose its creamy texture.

Pro Tip: Leftovers can be repurposed into new dishes! For example, mix leftover pasta bake with fresh greens and veggies for a warm pasta salad or stuff it into a baked bell pepper for a fun twist.

For more meal prep inspiration and storage tips, check out this guide to Rotisserie Chicken Recipes, which often incorporate similar make-ahead methods

FAQs Section

To ensure success with your Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, these tips will help you make the most of this dish.

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and works perfectly in this dish. Simply shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients. The flavorful seasoning of rotisserie chicken also enhances the overall taste.

2. How can I make this dish less spicy?

To tone down the heat, try one or more of these tips:

Use a milder wing sauce or replace part of the buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or extra ranch dressing.
Add more cream cheese or shredded cheese to mellow out the spice level.
Serve the pasta bake with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, which balances out the heat.

For a deeper understanding of buffalo sauce variations, visit Buffalo Sauce.

3. Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for prepping ahead of time:

Assemble in Advance: Prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Freezing: Assemble the bake and freeze it (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

4. What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake?

This dish pairs well with fresh, light sides to balance its creamy, rich flavors. Some great options include:

Garlic bread or crusty rolls.
A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, or carrots.
Celery and carrot sticks with ranch dressing for a buffalo wing-inspired twist.

For more pairing ideas, browse Comfort Food Recipes.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! Here’s how:

Freezing Individual Portions: Divide leftovers into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Store for up to 3 months.
Reheating from Frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk or buffalo sauce to restore moisture.

6. How do I make it gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free:

Use gluten-free pasta, such as rice-based or chickpea-based pasta.
Double-check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free (many brands offer gluten-free options).

7. Can I substitute the chicken with something else?

Absolutely! Here are some great alternatives:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, or tofu.
Other Proteins: Use shredded turkey, ground chicken, or even cooked shrimp for a fun twist.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate combination of bold flavors and creamy, cheesy comfort. Perfectly cooked penne pasta is tossed with tender, shredded chicken and a rich, tangy buffalo sauce made creamy with cream cheese and ranch dressing. It’s then layered with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheese and baked to bubbling, golden-brown perfection. Finished with a sprinkle of green onions and optional crumbled blue cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game days, or potluck gatherings.

Whether you love the spicy heat of buffalo sauce or prefer a more balanced flavor with creamy cheeses, this dish is endlessly customizable to suit your taste. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and reheats like a dream, making it a versatile favorite you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pasta bake:

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For garnish:

2 green onions, chopped
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and ranch (or blue cheese) dressing. Mix until smooth and well-coated.
Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese and the cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese (if desired) before serving.

Notes

Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level to your preference. Reduce the buffalo sauce for a milder flavor, or add extra for a spicy kick.
Cheese Options: While mozzarella and cheddar create the perfect cheesy combination, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or Colby jack for a creamier flavor.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente—it will continue to cook as it bakes, ensuring it doesn’t turn mushy.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the pasta bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes beautifully—freeze it unbaked or baked in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Reheating Tips: Add a splash of milk, buffalo sauce, or ranch dressing before reheating to keep the pasta creamy. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Pair It Well: Serve this hearty dish with lighter sides like a crisp green salad, celery and carrot sticks with ranch dressing, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Vegetarian Options: Substitute the chicken with roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, or plant-based protein for a delicious meatless version.
Add Some Crunch: For a crispy topping, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese layer before baking.
Pro Tip for Game Day: Serve with a toppings bar featuring extra buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, crumbled blue cheese, and green onions so everyone can customize their serving to their liking.