Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

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If comfort food had a spicy, creamy alter ego, it would be this Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake. It’s everything you love about buffalo wings and cheesy pasta fused into one bubbling casserole of goodness. Creamy ranch dressing meets tangy buffalo sauce, wrapped around tender pasta and topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs—this dish is a weeknight dinner winner and a party favorite all in one.

Each bite brings a creamy zing with a punch of spice, balanced by melted cheese and the savory crunch of a breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re serving it to game day guests or just looking for a bold twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe brings the flavor front and center.

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Why You’ll Love This Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

• Big bold flavor – That classic combo of buffalo sauce and ranch makes every bite pop.
• Family-friendly – Creamy, cheesy, and not too spicy, so everyone can enjoy.
• One dish wonder – Bakes all together in one pan for fewer dishes and maximum flavor.
• Make-ahead magic – Prepare it the night before and just bake when ready.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the ultimate Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few trusted kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling your pasta to al dente perfection.
• Mixing Bowl: Where the buffalo, ranch, and cheese goodness comes together.
• Baking Dish (9×13): This is where the magic happens. A deep enough dish ensures the sauce doesn’t overflow.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For evenly combining your ingredients and layering into the dish.
• Aluminum Foil: Helps prevent over-browning while baking.
• Oven Mitts: Because safety comes first when pulling bubbling cheese out of a hot oven.

These simple tools help ensure each step goes smoothly from boil to broil.

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Ingredients for the Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

• Elbow or penne pasta – Acts as the perfect base for catching all the saucy goodness.
• Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) – Adds protein and pairs beautifully with the bold flavors.
• Buffalo wing sauce – The zesty heat maker of the dish.
• Ranch dressing – Creamy and cooling, it balances the heat.
• Cream cheese – For added richness and velvety texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melty and sharp, it binds everything with gooey goodness.
• Mozzarella cheese – Adds a stretchy, cheesy pull to every bite.
• Breadcrumbs (optional) – For a golden, crispy topping.
• Fresh parsley – A sprinkle for freshness and color.

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How To Make the Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook your pasta in salted water just until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, cream cheese, and half the cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Layer

Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir to coat well. Pour everything into a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 4: Top It Off

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top. Add breadcrumbs if desired for crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let cool slightly, then garnish with parsley and serve warm.

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Serving and Storing the Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake

This dish is at its best served hot straight from the oven, paired with a side salad or roasted veggies. It’s a hit at game nights, potlucks, or cozy dinners.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals later.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It saves time and adds great flavor.

Is this recipe too spicy for kids?

Not at all. Use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount if needed.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the chicken or swap it for cooked chickpeas or cauliflower.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What side dishes go well with it?

A crisp garden salad or garlic bread are great choices to round out the meal.

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Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you loved this Ranch Buffalo Pasta Bake, check out these cheesy and bold creations from the Kitchen by Kate collection:

• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
• One Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the buffalo or keep it mild? Try topping it with blue cheese crumbles? I love hearing your spins and swaps—drop your thoughts below!

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