Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
A deliciously spicy dish combining creamy cheese with tender pasta and shredded chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners and loved by the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces Pasta (penne or rotini) Can substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- 2 cups Shredded cooked chicken Great way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
Sauce Components
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce Adjust quantity according to spice tolerance.
- 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened Can use reduced-fat cream cheese for lighter version.
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds more flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Garlic salt can be substituted, just reduce additional salt.
- Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning based on personal preference.
- Optional: green onions Chopped for freshness and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the 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 buffalo sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the bowl, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for a more robust flavor profile. Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it continues to cook in the oven. Experiment with different types of pasta and cheese for added flavor.