Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna takes traditional lasagna to a bold and spicy new level! This dish combines layers of tender lasagna noodles, a creamy buffalo chicken filling, and a rich blend of cheeses, all topped with a cool ranch drizzle. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or craving a hearty, cheesy dinner, this lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The kick of buffalo sauce paired with the creaminess of ranch dressing makes every bite a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Let’s dive into this ultimate comfort food recipe.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Ranch Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon milk (to thin, if needed)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the Noodles: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed, ensuring the buffalo sauce coats the chicken completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom of the dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the mixture.
- Add another layer of the buffalo chicken mixture, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the noodles on top.
- Top the final layer with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over it for added flavor.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
- In a small bowl, whisk the ranch dressing with milk until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the lasagna just before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Cooking Notes
- Buffalo Sauce Choice: Use your favorite buffalo sauce to control the heat level. Opt for mild if you prefer less spice or extra hot for a fiery kick.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to add blue cheese crumbles for a traditional buffalo chicken flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the lasagna up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Pair with a crisp green salad topped with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a refreshing balance.
- Add some roasted veggies, like zucchini or carrots, for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use oven-ready lasagna noodles for convenience, skipping the boiling step.
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.
- Let the lasagna cool slightly before slicing to prevent the layers from sliding apart.
- Double the recipe to make one lasagna for now and freeze one for later.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 26g
- Sodium: 960mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle is a mouthwatering dish that combines comfort food with a spicy twist. It’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. With its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and a hint of heat balanced by a creamy ranch drizzle, this lasagna will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
PrintCHEESY BUFFALO CHICKEN LASAGNA WITH RANCH DRIZZLE
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Ranch Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon milk (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the Noodles: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed, ensuring the buffalo sauce coats the chicken completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom of the dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the mixture.
- Add another layer of the buffalo chicken mixture, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the noodles on top.
- Top the final layer with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over it for added flavor.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
- In a small bowl, whisk the ranch dressing with milk until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the lasagna just before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 960mg
- Protein: 26g