'Firecracker Feast' is its nickname in my house! Every time I make it, someone mentions how it’s the perfect kick for chilly evenings.

Cooktop Cove: 'Firecracker Feast' is its nickname in my house! Every time I make it, someone mentions how it’s the perfect kick for chilly evenings.

By Holly Owens

Buffalo chicken pasta bake is one of my all-time favorites. It's like the best of game-day wings, cozying up to a cheesy pasta bake. I first tried this dish during a potluck with friends, and it quickly became a staple in our house. It's perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal with family. The tangy buffalo sauce complements the creamy cheese, and it's got just the right amount of kick. If you love buffalo wings and pasta, you're in for a treat!

This buffalo chicken pasta bake is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad. A crisp Caesar or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with some warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Servings: 6

Ingredients

8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini work well)
2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup of buffalo sauce
1/2 cup of ranch dressing
1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons of chopped green onions
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and softened cream cheese until smooth.

Add the shredded chicken to the sauce mixture, then toss in the cooked pasta, mixing well to coat everything evenly.

Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with the chopped green onions before serving.

Variations & Tips

For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buffalo mixture. If you're looking to lighten things up, use a whole wheat or low-carb pasta and substitute Greek yogurt for the ranch dressing to reduce calories. Vegetarians can swap the chicken for chickpeas or cauliflower for a delicious twist. Consider adding some blue cheese crumbles on top if you love that tangy flavor.