Buffalo Chicken Casserole – A Spicy, Cheesy Comfort Food Favorite
If you love the bold, zesty flavors of buffalo wings but want a dish that’s hearty, filling, and easy to make, this buffalo chicken casserole is your new go-to recipe. Packed with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, tender pasta (or cauliflower for a lighter twist), and the irresistible kick of buffalo sauce, this dish brings together all the best comfort food flavors in one baked casserole.
Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is not only delicious but also customizable with healthier swaps to suit your diet.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini – or cauliflower florets for low-carb)
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing OR blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp butter (to grease baking dish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prep the Oven & Dish – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter or spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside. (Skip this if using cauliflower.)
- Mix the Base – In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce until smooth.
- Add Chicken & Pasta – Stir in shredded chicken and cooked pasta (or cauliflower). Toss until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole – Transfer mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese over the top.
- Bake – Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with green onions and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce before serving.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 hearty portions
Tips & Variations
- Extra Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage.
- Veggie Add-In: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrients.
- Spice Level Control: Use mild buffalo sauce for less heat, or extra hot for spice lovers.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day before, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for a crispy layer.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Carb / Keto: Replace pasta with roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower base.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese.
- Lighter Version: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This buffalo chicken casserole is best served hot and melty, straight out of the oven. Pair it with:
- A crisp garden salad for freshness.
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks (just like classic buffalo wings).
- Garlic bread or cornbread for a hearty side.
It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—spicy, cheesy, filling, and customizable for different diets. Whether for a family dinner or a game day feast, this dish always hits the spot.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make buffalo chicken casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake before serving.
Q2: Can I freeze buffalo chicken casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual.
Q3: What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is the easiest option, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works perfectly.
Q4: Can I make this casserole less spicy?
Yes! Use a mild buffalo sauce and increase the amount of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a creamier, milder flavor.
Q5: Can I use cauliflower rice instead of pasta?
Definitely! Cauliflower rice makes this dish lower in carbs and perfect for keto diets.
