Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Tasty Family Favorite Dish

Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? My Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a tasty family favorite that packs bold flavor and cheesy goodness! This easy recipe brings together tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese—all baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details and get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked penne pasta

– 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup buffalo sauce

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

Buffalo chicken pasta bake starts with these four main ingredients. You need cooked penne pasta for a solid base. The cooked chicken adds protein and texture. Buffalo sauce gives it that spicy kick, while cream cheese adds creaminess. This blend makes the dish rich and satisfying.

Cheese Selection

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)

For cheese, I use sharp cheddar for its bold taste. It melts beautifully and enhances the dish. Blue cheese crumbles are optional but add a nice tang. You can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Seasonings and Toppings

– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Seasonings bring the dish to life. Green onions give it a fresh crunch. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Adjust salt and pepper to fit your taste. The breadcrumbs create a crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. This combination of flavors makes each bite exciting and delicious.

For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe].

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Mix shredded chicken and buffalo sauce in a bowl. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

Mixing Ingredients

– Incorporate cream cheese into the chicken mixture. Stir until the mix is smooth and creamy.

– Fold in cooked penne pasta gently. This ensures every noodle is coated with flavor.

Final Assembly

– Add cheese and green onions to the mixture. Fold them in for a burst of flavor.

– Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.

– Prepare the topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter. This gives a nice crunch.

– Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The dish should be bubbling and the top should look crispy.

For a detailed list of ingredients, check the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste. For protein, I recommend using rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. If you want a vegan option, use plant-based cheese. It melts well and keeps the dish creamy.

Perfecting the Recipe

Adjust the buffalo sauce to your spice level. If you like it hot, add more sauce. For a milder version, use less or choose a mild sauce. To get a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. This will give your bake a nice golden color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your buffalo chicken pasta bake with a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread pairs well too. For drinks, I suggest a light beer or a refreshing soda. These options will balance the dish’s flavors nicely.

Variations

Flavor Additions

You can make this dish even better with some extra flavors. Try adding fresh spinach or colorful peppers. These veggies not only boost the taste but also add nutrients. Another fun idea is to mix in different pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli. These shapes hold sauce well and make each bite exciting.

Different Cheeses

Cheese is key to making this dish rich and creamy. Instead of just cheddar, you can use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while pepper jack brings a spicy kick. You can also mix cheeses together. Combining cheddar with blue cheese gives a layered flavor that many love.

Dietary Modifications

For those who need gluten-free options, there are many great pasta choices. Look for pasta made from rice or chickpeas. These options keep the dish tasty without gluten. If you want a lower-fat version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also try dairy-free cheese, which works well in this recipe.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, put the pasta bake in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until it’s hot throughout.

Freezing Options

You can freeze Buffalo chicken pasta bake for longer storage. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. You can also reheat it directly from frozen. Just add extra time in the oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, expect the dish to last about three days. If it looks off or smells funny, it’s best to discard it. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. This ensures you enjoy the best taste and quality. Store it properly for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked pasta?

No, I do not recommend using uncooked pasta for this dish. Pre-cooked pasta ensures the right texture. If you use uncooked pasta, it may not cook evenly in the baking process. The sauce won’t soak in well. Cooking the pasta first helps absorb flavors and keeps it tender.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Some sauces are mild, while others can be very hot. If you prefer a milder taste, look for a mild buffalo sauce. You can also mix sauces to adjust heat. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of spice.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Mix the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Then, store it in the fridge for up to one day. When ready to bake, add the cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake it just before serving for the best taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can portion it into individual servings. Store them in airtight containers for easy access. Reheat them in the microwave or oven when you are ready to eat. Enjoy a tasty meal any day of the week!

For more details and a full list of ingredients, check out the Full Recipe.

This blog post covered a tasty buffalo chicken pasta bake. You learned about the main ingredients, cheese options, and seasonings needed for a great dish. We also explored tips for perfecting the recipe and variations you can try. Remember, you can substitute ingredients and adjust spice levels to fit your taste. Don’t forget about storage and reheating methods for leftovers. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share this delightful meal with others!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Indulge in the mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake, a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors. This easy recipe blends cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, and zesty buffalo sauce, topped with gooey cheddar and crunchy breadcrumbs. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a hit for family dinners and gatherings! Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your meal tonight!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked penne pasta

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup buffalo sauce (mild or hot, based on your preference)

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for added tanginess)

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions, plus extra for garnish

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat. This ensures a perfectly cooked bake once you're ready to pop it in.

Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce.

Incorporate cream cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the cream cheese is fully blended in.

Combine with pasta: Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta into the chicken mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the penne is evenly coated in the sauce and spices.

Add cheese and onions: Carefully fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped green onions. If you are opting for blue cheese, add half of that as well for a bold flavor kick.

Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.

Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. This will give the topping a beautiful golden color. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta bake.

Add final cheese layer: Top the entire bake with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, the remaining blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.

Bake to perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.

Garnish and serve: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to firm up. Garnish with the remaining chopped green onions before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6