Buffalo Chicken Casserole

I made this buffalo chicken casserole one game day when I wanted something cheesy spicy and easy to feed a crowd and I had some leftover shredded chicken and a bottle of buffalo sauce sitting in the fridge so I tossed it with pasta and a creamy sauce then covered it with cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs and the second it came out of the oven bubbling and golden it was game on. Everyone grabbed a fork and by halftime the dish was scraped clean.

What I love is that it has all the bold flavor of buffalo wings with the comfort of a baked cheesy casserole and it’s just spicy enough to give it a kick without overpowering everything. It’s perfect for parties weeknights or whenever I need something warm hearty and totally satisfying with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Cooked shredded chicken – The base protein that holds the bold buffalo flavor.
• Pasta – Usually rotini or penne to hold onto the sauce.
• Cream cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to mellow out the spice.
• Ranch dressing – Balances the heat with herby tang.
• Buffalo sauce – The signature kick that gives the dish its bold flavor.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts throughout for gooey cheesy texture.
• Mozzarella cheese – Adds extra melt and stretch on top.
• Garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor of the sauce.
• Salt and pepper – For simple, essential seasoning.
• Breadcrumbs – Sprinkled on top for crunch.
• Butter – Mixed with breadcrumbs to help them brown and crisp.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For boiling pasta until just tender.
• Skillet or saucepan – To mix and heat the creamy buffalo sauce.
• Mixing bowl – To combine all ingredients smoothly before baking.
• Baking dish – Used to layer and bake the casserole.
• Spoon or spatula – To stir and spread the ingredients evenly.
• Cheese grater – If you’re shredding fresh cheese.
• Oven mitts – For safe handling of the hot dish from the oven.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente then I drain it and set it aside making sure not to overcook it since it’ll bake more in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a large skillet I melt the cream cheese over low heat then I stir in the buffalo sauce ranch dressing garlic powder and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl I toss the cooked pasta with shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar then I pour the warm buffalo cream sauce over it and stir until everything is coated and well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

I transfer the buffalo chicken pasta mix into a greased baking dish and I sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for that gooey cheesy finish.

Step 5: Add the Crunch

In a small bowl I mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top of the cheese to add a crispy golden topping.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

I bake the casserole at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden and I let it sit for a few minutes before serving and sometimes I garnish it with green onions or a drizzle of ranch for extra flair.

Tips

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap out ranch for blue cheese dressing if you like it stronger. If you want it spicier I add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne. This recipe also works great with cauliflower instead of pasta if you want to make it low carb and the leftovers reheat beautifully the next day.

Ways to Serve

Buffalo chicken casserole is amazing on its own or paired with a crisp green salad or celery and carrot sticks to echo that buffalo wing feel. I also love serving it with garlic bread or cornbread for something a little more indulgent. It’s perfect for potlucks parties or cozy weeknight dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make buffalo chicken casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes of bake time if it’s cold.

Can I freeze buffalo chicken casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking. Just thaw and reheat thoroughly in the oven.

What pasta works best in this recipe?

Short pasta like rotini penne or elbow macaroni hold the sauce well and bake evenly.

Can I use leftover chicken or turkey?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey works perfectly in this dish.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this buffalo chicken casserole a try! It’s bold cheesy and just the right amount of spicy and I’d love to hear how you make it your own. Whether it’s for game day or a weeknight craving this dish always brings the heat and comfort.

Happy Cooking!

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