Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle: A Spicy, Comforting Masterpiece
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle takes two favorites—classic lasagna and spicy buffalo chicken—and combines them into a mouthwatering, cheesy dish. This layered casserole is packed with tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheeses, and a drizzle of tangy ranch dressing to balance the heat. It’s perfect for game days, potlucks, or simply indulging your craving for bold, comforting flavors.
Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Flavors: The spicy kick of buffalo sauce is balanced by creamy cheeses and ranch drizzle.
Comfort Food Upgrade: A classic lasagna gets a modern twist, making it hearty, satisfying, and full of excitement.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
For the Chicken Filling:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your preferred heat level)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
For the Layers:
- 9 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Lay 3 lasagna noodles across the bottom.
- Spread half of the chicken filling over the noodles.
- Top the chicken with half of the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, chicken, cheese mixture, and shredded cheese.
- For the final layer, top with the remaining noodles, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses, and drizzle with ranch dressing.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese (if using) and chopped green onions for garnish.
Step 7: Serve
Cut into slices and serve warm with extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce on the side for drizzling.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
Cook Noodles Al Dente: Slightly undercook the noodles so they don’t become mushy when baked.
Adjust the Heat: Use mild buffalo sauce or mix it with extra ranch dressing for a less spicy version.
Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing to help the layers set.
Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken saves time and ensures tender, flavorful results.
Customize Your Cheese: Add blue cheese crumbles to the cheese mixture for extra tang if you’re a fan.
Variations
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and use buffalo-flavored hot sauce.
Extra Creamy: Add a layer of cream cheese mixed with buffalo sauce for even more richness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your buffalo sauce is gluten-free.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Lasagna: Mix buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
This dish is hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal, but it pairs wonderfully with these sides:
Green Salad: A crisp salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the richness of the lasagna.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy, saucy layers.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for a healthy side.
Storing and Reheating
Storing: Let the lasagna cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
This dish takes everything you love about buffalo chicken wings—spicy sauce, creamy ranch, and tangy cheese—and layers it with lasagna noodles for a unique, comforting meal. It’s a playful take on a classic casserole that’s sure to be the star of your next dinner table.
Final Thoughts on Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
If you’re looking for a dish that’s indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for a crowd, Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle is the way to go. It’s a bold fusion of two beloved dishes, creating a recipe that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
Whip up a batch for game day, a family dinner, or any occasion, and watch it disappear before your eyes!
