Name: Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you love the comforting warmth of pasta combined with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and the creamy tanginess of ranch, then you are going to adore this Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake. This dish perfectly balances spicy, creamy, and cheesy elements to deliver a crowd-pleasing meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a dish to bring to a gathering, the Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake is a standout that’s effortlessly delicious and incredibly satisfying.

Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward with a handful of essential ingredients, each chosen to bring the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and gooey cheese to the dish. Every component plays a key role in making this pasta bake irresistibly flavorful and texturally delightful.

12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta: These shapes hold sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and soaks up all the saucy goodness.
1 cup buffalo sauce: Brings that signature spicy kick characteristic of buffalo flavor.
1/2 cup ranch dressing: Provides the cool, creamy contrast that balances the heat perfectly.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds smooth creaminess for a rich, velvety sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Gives sharpness and depth in every cheesy layer.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers melty stretchiness that’s essential for any good pasta bake.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory punch without overpowering the dish.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile with delicate sweetness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note.

How to Make Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep and Cook Your Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup. Then, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just shy of al dente—this prevents the pasta from getting mushy once baked and helps it maintain perfect texture.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sauce

While the pasta cooks, grab a saucepan and combine your buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and softened cream cheese over medium heat. Stir them together until velvety smooth. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well so every bit of sauce is punchy and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese

In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with the shredded chicken along with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Pour your luscious buffalo ranch sauce over, folding everything together gently to ensure each pasta piece is coated with that creamy, spicy goodness.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly so the bake cooks consistently. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling with inviting golden spots. For a little extra flair, broil for 2 to 3 minutes to get a crispy, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Garnish and Rest

Once out of the oven, let your Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake rest for 5 minutes so the flavors set beautifully. Then sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions to add a bright, fresh touch that complements the richness.

How to Serve Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions are perfect to sprinkle on top, adding a nice contrast in flavor and a pop of lively green color that makes each serving feel fresh and inviting.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with crisp veggie sticks like celery or carrot to keep things light and refreshing. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette also balances the rich spiciness of the bake beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties. Alternatively, scoop it into lettuce cups for a playful, handheld experience that’s perfect for casual gatherings or game day snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored properly, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for an easy meal the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, too. Assemble and bake as directed, then cool completely before wrapping tightly or placing in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, ready to thaw and reheat on demand.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave on medium power in increments, stirring occasionally to keep it hot and even.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work best thanks to their shape, you can swap in fusilli, rotini, or even shells. Just make sure the pasta is not overcooked before baking to avoid mushiness.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level largely depends on your buffalo sauce choice. You can tone it down by mixing in more ranch dressing or opt for a milder buffalo sauce if you prefer just a gentle kick.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, or even crispy tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still delivers lots of flavor.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices here because cheddar brings sharp flavor while mozzarella melts nicely for gooey perfection. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking it fresh when ready. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with comfort, spice, and cheesy goodness all in one, the Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake is your new best friend. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to wow guests. Give this recipe a try and you might just find it becoming a go-to favorite in your cooking rotation—believe me, it’s that good!

Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 8 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

A creamy and spicy Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake combining tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a rich buffalo ranch sauce, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook pasta: Boil salted water and cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Make buffalo ranch sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Combine pasta mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Pour the buffalo ranch sauce over and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Rest and garnish: Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, spicy pasta bake!

Notes

For a spicier dish, add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Substitute chicken with cooked turkey or tofu to vary the protein.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
Broiling time may vary depending on your oven, so watch carefully when crisping the cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American