Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Buffalo Ranch Pasta Bake offers bold flavors and simple steps! This dish combines creamy ranch with spicy buffalo, shredded chicken, and pasta for a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish that satisfies. Read on to discover how to make this easy recipe and add your twist!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor Profile: This dish combines the zesty heat of buffalo sauce with the creamy goodness of ranch dressing, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Comfort Food Classic: Pasta bakes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
To make Buffalo Ranch Pasta Bake, you need these key items:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
These ingredients work together to create a creamy and spicy dish. The penne pasta holds the sauce well, while the chicken adds protein. The buffalo sauce brings heat, and ranch dressing balances it with creaminess.
Optional Ingredients
You can also add some extra ingredients for a nice touch:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Breadcrumbs give a crunchy topping. Mix them with olive oil before sprinkling on top. This adds a nice texture contrast to the dish.
Seasoning and Adjustments
For taste, add salt and pepper as needed. The buffalo sauce can be adjusted to your liking. If you want a milder flavor, use less sauce. For more heat, add extra sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go, so you find the right balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta until al dente.
Start by setting your oven to 350°F. This helps it get hot while you prepare the dish. Next, boil water in a large pot and add salt. Once it’s boiling, add 12 ounces of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which means firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Mixing and Combining
- Combine chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing.
- Fold in cooked penne and cheeses.
In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with 1 cup of buffalo sauce and 1 cup of ranch dressing. Stir until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. Then, add the cooked penne pasta to the chicken mixture. Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Season the mix with salt and pepper to taste, making it just right for you.
Baking Instructions
- Transfer mixture to baking dish and add toppings.
- Bake and garnish.
Next, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into it and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. If you like a crunchy topping, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle it over the cheese. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese melts and bubbles. Once baked, take it out and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Ranch Pasta Bake!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To cook pasta al dente, follow these simple steps:
- Use a large pot of salted water to boil the pasta.
- Add the penne and stir. Cook for about 2 minutes less than the package states.
- Taste a piece before draining. It should be firm yet tender.
For shredding chicken:
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat.
- You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quick shredding.
Baking Tips
To ensure even cheese melting:
- Spread cheese in an even layer on the top.
- Consider mixing cheeses for different flavors.
For a perfect breadcrumb topping:
- Combine breadcrumbs with olive oil before adding.
- Spread them evenly on the cheese for crunch.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices for more flavor. Try garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
For toppings, consider:
- Crumbled blue cheese for extra zing.
- Fresh herbs like parsley for color.
Pair your buffalo ranch pasta bake with:
- A simple green salad for balance.
- Garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Pro Tips
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a mild version. You can also add more ranch dressing to balance the heat.
- Choose Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheese combinations. Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick, while cream cheese can make the dish extra creamy.
- Make it Ahead: This pasta bake can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Perfectly Crunchy Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, toast the breadcrumbs in olive oil before sprinkling them over the cheese. This adds texture and flavor.
Variations
Dietary Variations
You can easily change this recipe to fit different diets.
- Vegetarian options: Use a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. They soak up flavors well and add protein.
- Gluten-free pasta: Swap out the penne for gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas.
These options keep the dish tasty while fitting your diet.
Flavor Variations
You can play with flavors in this dish.
- Different sauces: Try BBQ sauce for a sweet kick. It pairs well with chicken and adds a smoky taste.
- Adding vegetables: Mix in veggies like bell peppers or spinach. They add color and nutrients.
Experiment with these changes to find your favorite flavor.
Serving Variations
How you serve this dish can change the meal.
- Portioning: Serve in smaller dishes for appetizers or keep it in one big dish for a main course.
- Ideas for side dishes: Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the richness of the pasta bake.
These serving tips help you customize your dining experience.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your buffalo ranch pasta bake fresh, follow these steps:
- Allow the dish to cool completely.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to four days.
Using glass containers works well for easy reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat without losing moisture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot.
You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze buffalo ranch pasta bake!
- Let it cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil.
- It will stay good for up to three months.
When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best taste.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. This makes your prep quick and easy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To kick up the heat, add more buffalo sauce. You can also include chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Taste it as you go to find your perfect spice level.
Cooking Time Questions
What is the total cooking time for buffalo ranch pasta bake?
The total cooking time is about 50 minutes. This includes prep and baking time. You will spend about 15 minutes preparing the dish and then 25-30 minutes baking it.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
Your pasta bake is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also check if the edges are lightly browned. A good indicator is when it looks golden and delicious!
Ingredient Substitution Questions
Can I replace ranch dressing with another dressing?
Yes, you can use another dressing, like blue cheese or Caesar. These will change the flavor, but they can still be tasty. Just remember to adjust the spices to match your new dressing.
What cheese can I substitute for cheddar or mozzarella?
You can use cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Both melt well and add great flavor. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique taste.
Buffalo ranch pasta bake is a fun and tasty dish anyone can make. We covered the main and optional ingredients, plus how to prepare, mix, and bake. I shared tips to enhance flavors and variations for different diets. You can also store and reheat leftovers with ease. This dish is perfect for sharing or enjoying as a meal. Remember, you can always adjust spices to suit your taste. Try this bake for a comforting meal that never gets ol
Buffalo Ranch Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup chopped green onions
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the chicken mixture and stir until combined. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and season with salt and pepper.
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella on top. If using, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness.
