Ultimate Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Your New Go-To Easy Dinner
Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this incredibly easy and lusciously creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a generous kick of hot sauce, and an abundance of bubbly, melted cheese—all baked to perfection in under an hour. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the beloved flavors of buffalo chicken dip into a hearty, family-sized casserole, ready to serve in about 30 minutes of bake time. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or any time you crave a satisfying, spicy, and cheesy dish!
Why This Buffalo Chicken Casserole Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe truly hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. It’s essentially your favorite buffalo chicken dip transformed into a hearty, main course casserole. By adding pasta to the mix, we’ve created a dish that is incredibly filling, provides a delightful texture contrast, and delivers that perfect amount of spicy heat that buffalo chicken lovers crave. It’s wonderfully creamy, deeply flavorful, and remarkably easy to assemble, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. What’s more, the spice level is fully customizable, so you can tailor it to suit everyone at your table.
The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients: rich cream cheese, savory ranch seasoning, classic hot sauce (we prefer Frank’s Red Hot for that authentic buffalo taste), al dente pasta, succulent cooked chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all bound together with the comforting base of cream of celery soup. If you’ve ever enjoyed a warm, cheesy buffalo chicken dip, you are absolutely going to adore this elevated, family-style casserole version. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with incredible taste.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Buffalo Chicken Casserole
To create this irresistible Buffalo Chicken Casserole, you’ll need a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. For precise measurements, a comprehensive list, and detailed instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card available at the conclusion of this article.
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips & Substitutions
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this buffalo chicken casserole. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how you can customize it.
PASTA – While we absolutely love the way ziti pasta holds the creamy sauce in this casserole, don’t hesitate to use your favorite pasta shape. Other excellent choices that work wonderfully in this dish include spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli. The key is to choose a pasta that can stand up to a rich sauce and hearty chicken. Ensure you cook it to al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
CHICKEN – This recipe is fantastic for using up cooked chicken. Whether you prefer succulent cooked chicken breast, shredded chicken, or convenient cubed rotisserie chicken, any variety will integrate beautifully. Using leftover chicken breast or a store-bought rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly quick to prepare, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights.
HOT SAUCE – Half a cup of hot sauce provides a delightful, characteristic buffalo kick without being overwhelmingly spicy for most palates. We highly recommend Frank’s Red Hot sauce for its iconic flavor profile, which is essential for that authentic buffalo taste. If you enjoy more heat, feel free to increase the amount or drizzle extra hot sauce over your individual serving. Conversely, if you desire just a subtle hint of buffalo flavor with minimal spice, reduce the hot sauce to ¼ cup. You can always adjust it to your family’s preference.
CREAM CHEESE – Softened cream cheese is the foundation of this casserole’s signature creaminess. It melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a rich and velvety texture that perfectly balances the spice from the hot sauce. Make sure it’s softened to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
RANCH SEASONING – A packet of dry ranch seasoning mix adds a fantastic layer of savory, herby flavor that complements the buffalo sauce wonderfully. It’s what truly ties the “buffalo ranch” flavor profile together in this casserole. If you don’t have a packet, you can make your own with dried parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
MOZZARELLA CHEESE – Generous amounts of grated mozzarella cheese provide the incredible gooey, bubbly topping that every good casserole needs. It melts into a delectable golden crust, adding a mild, milky flavor that balances the bold buffalo sauce. For best results, grate your own cheese from a block; it melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
CREAM OF CELERY SOUP – This condensed soup acts as a creamy binder for the casserole, adding a subtle savory depth. If you don’t have cream of celery, cream of chicken soup is an excellent and widely available substitute that will work just as well. It’s important to note: do not dilute the condensed soup with milk or water before adding it to the mixture, as it will thin out the casserole too much.
Effortless Steps to Prepare Your Buffalo Chicken Casserole
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the very bottom of this post.
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Next, cook your chosen pasta according to the package directions, aiming for an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. This prevents the casserole from becoming mushy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, condensed cream of celery (or chicken) soup, dry ranch seasoning mix, and the buffalo hot sauce. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. A hand mixer can make this step quicker and ensure a uniform consistency, preventing any lumps.
- Once your creamy sauce is ready, gently stir in ½ cup of the grated mozzarella cheese and all of your cooked, diced, or shredded chicken. Fold these ingredients into the sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Now, carefully add the drained, cooked pasta to the bowl with the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout.
- Spread this delicious pasta and chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Make sure it forms an even layer for consistent baking.
- Generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole mixture. This will create a beautiful, melted cheese crust.
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is completely melted and golden brown. You may remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you prefer a crispier cheese topping.
- For a final flourish, garnish the hot casserole with an extra drizzle of hot sauce, if desired, and a sprinkling of fresh sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Storing your leftover buffalo chicken casserole is simple! Transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a 300°F (150°C) oven until it’s thoroughly warmed through, typically 20-30 minutes for refrigerated portions, or longer for frozen.
If you prefer a truly indulgent and saucier casserole, consider adding an extra ½ cup of milk or heavy cream to the sauce mixture before combining it with the pasta and chicken. This will enhance the liquid content and create an even silkier, more luscious consistency throughout the dish.
Absolutely! This buffalo chicken casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. Assemble the entire casserole as directed, but do not bake. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes prior to baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature, then bake as per instructions, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed.
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can easily adjust the amount of hot sauce. Start with just ¼ cup for a hint of buffalo flavor, or even less if you’re very sensitive to spice. You can also opt for a milder hot sauce brand. For a true non-spicy version, you could substitute the buffalo sauce with a mild barbecue sauce or skip it entirely, focusing on the creamy ranch and chicken flavors.
Delicious Serving Ideas for Your Casserole
While this buffalo chicken casserole is hearty and incredibly filling all on its own, a few simple sides can elevate it into a complete and satisfying meal. For a fresh contrast, consider serving it alongside a crisp green dinner salad with a light vinaigrette, or some crunchy celery and carrot sticks with a side of blue cheese dressing. Warm, garlicky breadsticks or a crusty loaf of bread are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy, spicy sauce. As an optional garnish, don’t forget an extra drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for those who crave more heat, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions or fresh chopped cilantro for vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, fresh from the oven!
Explore More Easy Casserole Recipes
If you loved the ease and comfort of this buffalo chicken casserole, you’re in for a treat! Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners and meal prep. Discover more delicious and easy-to-make casserole recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your home. Each one promises simple preparation and incredible flavor, just like this buffalo chicken pasta bake.
- Mexican Chicken Casserole
- Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
- Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, creating and experimenting with new flavors, and sharing my culinary adventures with all of you! Remembering to check back every day for new recipes can sometimes be a challenge, which is why I’ve made it easy for you. I offer a convenient newsletter that delivers a brand-new recipe straight to your inbox every time one posts. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes, ensuring you never miss out on delicious inspiration!
This creamy buffalo chicken casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures, all wrapped up in an incredibly easy-to-make package. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving a satisfying dish with a spicy kick, this recipe delivers every time. With its customizable spice level and simple ingredients, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and experience the magic of this ultimate buffalo chicken pasta bake tonight!
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces ziti pasta cooked and drained to al dente
- 10.5 ounces cream of celery soup or cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened for easy mixing
- 1 ounce dry ranch seasoning mix 1 packet for classic flavor
- ½ cup hot sauce such as Frank’s, adjust to desired spice level
- 3 cups grated mozzarella cheese divided, for mixture and topping
- 3 cups cooked diced chicken chicken breast or shredded rotisserie
- ½ cup sliced green onion for garnish
Things You’ll Need
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13×9 baking dish
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Mixing bowls
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Hand mixer
Chef’s Notes & Pro-Tips
- For convenience, utilize pre-cooked chicken breast, leftover roasted chicken, or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Shredding or cubing it evenly ensures consistent distribution in the casserole.
- While ziti pasta is recommended for its texture and ability to capture the sauce, feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Cook it to a firm al dente, as it will soften further during baking.
- The recipe calls for ½ cup of hot sauce, typically Frank’s Red Hot, for a classic buffalo flavor with a moderate kick. Adjust this amount to your preference: reduce to ¼ cup for a milder taste, or increase for a bolder, spicier casserole.
- Condensed cream of celery soup provides a creamy base. If unavailable, cream of chicken soup makes an excellent substitute. Remember, do not add any extra milk or water to the condensed soup, as it will make the casserole too runny.
- To achieve an even saucier casserole, incorporate an additional ½ cup of milk or cream into your sauce mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish by lightly greasing it.
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Cook pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, condensed soup (celery or chicken), dry ranch seasoning, and buffalo hot sauce. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
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Stir in ½ cup of the grated mozzarella cheese and the cooked, diced chicken.
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Carefully add the cooked pasta to the mixture and fold until evenly combined.
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Spread the entire mixture into the prepared 9×13 casserole dish, creating an even layer.
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Generously top the casserole with the remaining grated mozzarella cheese.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is completely melted. For a golden-brown top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
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Garnish with an extra drizzle of hot sauce (optional) and sliced green onions before serving warm.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- For a saucier casserole, try adding ½ cup milk or cream to the sauce mixture. This adds an extra layer of richness and a more luscious texture.
- Store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, ensuring even heating.
- Consider adding a handful of blue cheese crumbles to the top along with the mozzarella for an authentic buffalo flavor boost.
- To make this a complete meal, serve with a crisp side salad or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.