Save to Pinterest Buffalo Chicken Pasta with Ranch Drizzle is a fiery, creamy pasta bake that brings together elbow macaroni, shredded chicken, bold buffalo sauce, melty mozzarella, and cream cheese for a flavor-packed meal. Served hot and finished with a cool ranch drizzle, this dish offers a perfect balance of heat and creamy comfort.
The first time I made this Buffalo Chicken Pasta, my family couldn&t believe how quickly it disappeared from the table. It&s now our go-to dish for gatherings when we want something satisfying that packs a punch.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Sauce: 300 g (10 oz) elbow macaroni, 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, 120 ml (½ cup) buffalo sauce, 100 g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, 150 g (1½ cups) shredded mozzarella, 100 ml (⅓ cup) milk, salt and black pepper to taste
- Topping: Ranch dressing for drizzling, chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the buffalo cream sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, combine buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until smooth and bubbly. Add mozzarella and stir until melted.
- Add chicken and pasta:
- Stir shredded chicken into the sauce. Then fold in cooked pasta and mix to coat evenly.
- Bake (optional):
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Serve:
- Drizzle with ranch dressing and garnish with green onions or parsley.
Save to Pinterest Every time I bring Buffalo Chicken Pasta to a potluck, it sparks conversations and disappears in minutes. It&s easy to customize too, so everyone can make it their own.
Required Tools
Pot for pasta, skillet or saucepan, baking dish (optional)
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (pasta), dairy (cream cheese, milk, cheese, ranch). Ranch may contain egg—always check the label.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 630, Total Fat: 34 g, Carbohydrates: 45 g, Protein: 32 g
Save to Pinterest With every bite of this Buffalo Chicken Pasta, you&ll taste creamy, spicy comfort. Don&t forget to drizzle with plenty of ranch for the ultimate finish.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Use mild buffalo sauce for less heat, or try extra-hot for a spicier kick. You can also add more ranch to mellow the flavors.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Mozzarella is suggested for its melting properties, but you can substitute cheddar or a blend for added tang and complexity.
- → What's a quick chicken option?
Rotisserie chicken saves time, providing tender shredded meat that absorbs the buffalo flavor easily.
- → How do I make it gluten-free?
Swap standard elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and check ranch dressing labels for ingredients.
- → Is baking required?
Baking is optional, but it helps create a bubbly top and melds the flavors. You can serve immediately from the stovetop.
- → What garnishes pair well?
Chopped green onions, parsley, celery, or blue cheese crumbles add freshness and classic buffalo notes.