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Homemade Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake with Ranch Drizzle photo

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake with Ranch Drizzle

This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake with Ranch Drizzle is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy comfort meal perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Penne Pasta
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken shredded
  • 1 cup Buffalo Sauce
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing for drizzle
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Diced Green Onions
  • 1/2 cup Turkey Bacon cooked and crumbled
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Olive Oil Spray for greasing baking dish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

The Method for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake with Ranch Drizzle
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with 1 cup of buffalo sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
  3. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup diced green onions to the chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl with the buffalo chicken and cheese mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and evenly mixed.
  5. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the pasta mixture into the baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
  6. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon over the top of the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
  7. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle 1 cup of ranch dressing evenly over the top before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a crisp salad or steamed veggies.

Notes

  • Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut and excellent flavor.
  • Substitute penne with fusilli or rigatoni if preferred.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • To reduce spiciness, mix additional ranch dressing into the chicken before baking.
  • Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy bake.