Introduction
If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with a deliciously comforting dish, this buffalo chicken pasta casserole might be just what you need. Combining savory chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy buffalo sauce are the stars of this hearty meal that’s sure to please. This dish not only packs a punch of flavor but also has the perfect balance of creaminess and spice.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices bacon
8 ounces penne pasta (or your preferred variety)
1 cup buffalo wing sauce
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup ranch dressing
¾ cup Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
This buffalo chicken pasta casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the unique taste of buffalo sauce with comforting pasta and cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect meal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where a little heat and hearty fare is appreciated. Enjoy it with friends and family, and don’t forget the extra drizzle of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of buffalo wing sauce, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of ranch dressing, ¾ cup of Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined; it’s okay if some lumps remain.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or cooking spray. Add 1½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sear on one side for 3-4 minutes. Flip the chicken, add ½ cup of water to the skillet, cover, and continue cooking for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer for finer pieces.
Step 6: Cook Bacon
In the same skillet, cook 8 slices of bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
Step 7: Assemble Casserole
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, evenly spread the shredded chicken and cooked pasta.
Step 8: Add Sauce Mixture
Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken and pasta, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Top with Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, if desired.
Notes
Note 1
Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
Note 2
Feel free to customize the casserole by adding other ingredients, such as vegetables or different cheese varieties.
Note 3
For extra spice, you can increase the amount of buffalo sauce in the sauce mixture.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing chicken breasts at medium heat for a few minutes on each side helps develop a flavorful crust. Make sure to add water and cover the skillet to ensure the chicken cooks through without drying out, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Mixing Sauces
When combining the buffalo wing sauce with cream cheese, ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, and spices, use a large mixing bowl. This allows for easy incorporation, and it’s okay if some lumps remain for added texture.
Cooking Bacon
Cook bacon slices over medium heat until crispy, allowing the fat to render out. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease and crumble once cooled for even distribution in the casserole.
Layering Ingredients
In a baking dish, layer the shredded chicken and cooked pasta evenly. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over, ensuring that it covers everything uniformly, then sprinkle with cheese and crumbled bacon for a delicious finish.
Baking the Casserole
Bake the assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown, enhancing the overall taste.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any preferred variety, such as rotini or fusilli, depending on your taste.
What if I don’t have buffalo wing sauce?
You can make a homemade buffalo sauce using hot sauce mixed with melted butter for a comparable flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it just before serving.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken pasta bake combines the rich flavors of buffalo wing sauce with creamy cheeses and crispy bacon, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings or as a hearty family meal. The blend of ranch dressing and Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess, while the green onions provide a fresh garnish. It’s a comforting, flavorful casserole that will surely impress!
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Combine shredded buffalo chicken with cheese in tortillas, grill until crispy, and serve with ranch dressing or additional buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Use shredded buffalo chicken on slider buns topped with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Fill halved bell peppers with the buffalo chicken mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Toss shredded buffalo chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a ranch dressing for a spicy and refreshing salad.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Spread buffalo chicken and cheese on a pizza crust, add your favorite toppings, and bake for a quick and delicious meal.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Mix cooked pasta with shredded buffalo chicken, diced vegetables, and a creamy dressing for a cold pasta salad option that’s perfect for picnics.
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Wrap shredded buffalo chicken with lettuce, cheese, and toppings in a tortilla for a quick lunch or snack.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Add buffalo chicken to your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe for a spicy twist on the classic comfort food.
