Creamy and smooth with just a little bit of heat, this Buffalo Chicken Casserole is an easy dinner recipe that the whole family can enjoy! The zesty Ranch seasoning perfectly balances the cheesy pasta and spicy buffalo sauce for a flavorful meal that takes just 5 minutes to prep.
Buffalo chicken wings always make me think of Game Day. I’ve taken those same nostalgic flavors and combined them into one convenient dish! This creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole is perfect for sharing with friends at a potluck, feeding your family while they watch a football game, or making a quick meal for busy weeknights.
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. When you’re ready to cook, let the dish sit on the counter for 30-60 minutes to come to room temperature. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly, and it will keep for up to 2 months.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Uncooked penne
- 2 cups Cooked/rotisserie chicken
- 1 15 ounce jar Alfredo sauce
- 1/3 cup Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce
- 1/3 cup Blue cheese crumbles optional
- 1 1 ounce packet Ranch seasoning
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella
- Chopped scallions optional, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a salted pot of water and cook the pasta for one minute less than the package directions indicate. Drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 casserole dish, mix the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, Frank's Red Hot, blue cheese (if using), and ranch seasoning until evenly coated. Spread the mixture in an even layer.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Top with shredded mozzarella. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Optionally, broil for a few minutes at the end to brown the cheese (watch carefully to avoid burning).
- Serve: Top with chopped scallions if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice Level: This recipe has a bit of kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce, but keep in mind it adds moisture and the signature hot wings flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310Â kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 984.1mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Can I Make This Casserole Less Spicy?
Yes, you can make the casserole less spicy by reducing the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce. Start with a smaller amount, such as 2 tablespoons, and taste the mixture before adding more. You can always add a bit more hot sauce if you want to increase the heat gradually.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, but don’t bake it. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminium foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake according to the recipe instructions.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or oven. For the microwave, heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For the oven, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the cheesy texture and prevent it from drying out.