Get ready to ignite your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food! This easy buffalo chicken casserole brings all the zesty, spicy, and creamy flavors of classic buffalo chicken into one satisfying pasta bake. With minimal prep and a seriously delicious outcome, it is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Prepare for a cheesy, comforting dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Casserole
You’ll quickly fall in love with this buffalo chicken casserole recipe for so many reasons. It simplifies mealtime without sacrificing flavor!
- Quick & Easy: Using convenient ingredients like pre-cooked chicken and jarred Alfredo sauce means less time in the kitchen.
- Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy Frank’s Red Hot, tangy blue cheese, and creamy Alfredo, creating a truly addictive taste.
Did you know that Frank’s RedHot, a key ingredient for that classic buffalo kick, has a rich history dating back over a century? Learn more about Frank’s RedHot hot sauce.
- Hearty & Satisfying: This casserole is a filling meal, ideal for family dinners or gatherings where you need to please many appetites.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it delivers that cozy, comforting feeling every time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks, game days, or any casual get-together.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your amazing buffalo chicken casserole:
- 8 ounces uncooked penne: The perfect shape to capture all the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken: Shredded for easy mixing.
- 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce: A creamy base for richness.
- 1/3 cup Franks Red Hot Original Sauce: For that iconic buffalo kick.
- 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional): Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning: Enhances the savory profile.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: For a bubbly, cheesy topping.
- Chopped scallions (optional, to taste): A fresh garnish.
To further explore the distinctive taste that blue cheese crumbles bring to various dishes, you can delve into understanding blue cheese crumbles and their versatile culinary applications.
Notes & Substitutions
Feel free to customize your buffalo chicken casserole with these ideas:
- Pasta: Try rotini, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni for different textures.
- Sauce: For a homemade touch, prepare your own Alfredo or ranch dressing instead of store-bought.
- Chicken: Canned chicken breast works in a pinch, or shred leftover roasted chicken for convenience.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar blend for a different cheesy experience.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this buffalo chicken casserole:
- Large pot for cooking pasta.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish for baking.
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
- Cooking spoon for stirring.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your delicious buffalo chicken casserole:
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and move the oven rack to the top third position. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it for one minute less than the package directions suggest for al dente. This ensures your pasta won’t be mushy after baking in the buffalo chicken casserole. Drain the pasta thoroughly once cooked.
Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients.
Transfer the drained pasta directly into your 9×13 inch casserole dish. Add the cooked, shredded chicken, the entire jar of Alfredo sauce, Franks Red Hot Original Sauce, the blue cheese crumbles (if using), and the ranch seasoning packet. Use your cooking spoon to toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly coated. Spread the mixture into an even layer across the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake.
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Place the uncovered casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges. The cheese should be melted and starting to turn golden. This step allows all the flavors to meld together in the buffalo chicken casserole.
Step 4: Broil and Serve.
For an extra golden and bubbly cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes. Watch it very carefully to prevent burning; cheese can brown quickly under the broiler. Once the cheese is to your liking, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped scallions, if desired, then serve your piping hot buffalo chicken casserole immediately.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Achieve Perfect Pasta: Always cook pasta one minute less than al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy after baking in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Spice Level: Start with less Frank’s Red Hot if you prefer a milder flavor, then add more to taste. You can always add extra hot sauce at the table.
- Prevent Drying Out: If reheating leftovers, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth. This helps maintain moisture and creaminess.
- Golden Brown Topping: For a beautifully browned, bubbly cheese crust, don’t skip the brief broil at the end. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This buffalo chicken casserole is incredibly versatile for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crunchy celery sticks to complete the buffalo experience.
- Offer extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
- Store any leftover buffalo chicken casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
- Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the pasta’s texture can become grainy and unappealing upon thawing and reheating.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: Stir in some diced bell peppers, corn, or frozen peas with the pasta mixture for extra nutrients and color.
- Loaded Casserole: Make it “loaded” by adding crispy bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or a dash of smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
- Alternative Protein: Swap chicken for cooked ground turkey or shredded pork for a different take on this comforting dish.
Nutrition Information
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used in your buffalo chicken casserole.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 497 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 29g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 117mg |
| Sodium | 1597mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare buffalo chicken casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole (up to adding the mozzarella) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese right before baking and add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
How spicy is this buffalo chicken casserole?
It has a moderate kick from the Frank’s Red Hot. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your preference.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Cooked and shredded chicken works perfectly. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, but leftover baked or boiled chicken breast also works great.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar would melt beautifully and add a different flavor profile to your buffalo chicken casserole.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
No, it’s not recommended. The pasta tends to change texture and can become mushy or grainy after being frozen and reheated, affecting the overall dish.
Conclusion
This easy buffalo chicken casserole is a true winner, combining bold flavors with ultimate convenience. It’s the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day or any gathering. Don’t wait to try this incredibly delicious and satisfying recipe. Make it tonight and discover your new favorite comfort food!