Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist

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Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist

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Looking for a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish? This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of lasagna with the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken and the cool, tangy richness of ranch dressing. It’s the ultimate comfort food with an exciting, zesty kick! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding the family, or simply craving something different, this lasagna is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold & Flavorful – The buffalo chicken sauce pairs perfectly with the cool ranch dressing and layers of cheese.
  • Creamy & Cheesy – The rich, creamy cheese mixture melts beautifully into the pasta for a comfort food masterpiece.
  • Perfect for Buffalo Chicken Lovers – If you love the combination of spicy buffalo sauce and cool ranch, this lasagna is made for you.
  • Simple to Make – It’s a fun, easy twist on a traditional lasagna that can be made in one pan and is packed with flavor.
  • Great for a Crowd – This lasagna is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Buffalo Chicken Sauce:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded, preferably rotisserie chicken)
  • ½ cup buffalo sauce (more or less depending on your spice preference)
  • ¼ cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Mixture:

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Lasagna:

  • 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot (for boiling noodles if using regular lasagna noodles)
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon or spatula for spreading
  • Aluminum foil (for covering the lasagna while baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles (if using regular noodles)

  • If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Sauce

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Let the chicken mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is well coated. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  • Start by spreading a thin layer of the buffalo chicken sauce on the bottom of the dish. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking.
  • Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce (either regular or no-boil).
  • Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
  • Add a layer of buffalo chicken sauce on top of the cheese.
  • Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese mixture, buffalo chicken sauce) until all ingredients are used up. Make sure the final layer is buffalo chicken sauce.
  • Top the lasagna with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 ½ cups).

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

  • Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

  • Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker and more flavorful option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds extra flavor to the dish.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add extra buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture or use a hotter variety of buffalo sauce.
  • Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: If using regular lasagna noodles, don’t overcook them. They should be slightly firm to the bite before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Use No-Boil Noodles for Convenience: No-boil lasagna noodles make this recipe even easier and quicker to prepare. Just layer them straight from the box without boiling!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a ranch or blue cheese dressing pairs beautifully with the spicy, creamy lasagna.
  • Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve this lasagna with crispy garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
  • Add Extra Heat: If you like extra heat, top the lasagna with sliced jalapeños or drizzle some extra buffalo sauce on top before serving.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

  • Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • To freeze, allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

  • To reheat, bake the lasagna at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Yes! Ground chicken works well in this recipe if you prefer a smoother texture. Just cook it through and crumble it into the sauce.

2. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions.

3. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought ranch dressing for convenience. However, making your own ranch dressing will give the lasagna a more authentic and fresh flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles in place of regular noodles to make this dish gluten-free.

5. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on how much buffalo sauce you use. If you want a milder version, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a mild buffalo sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist is a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. The layers of tender buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and the zesty ranch twist come together in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving something new and exciting for dinner, this lasagna will not disappoint.

Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American (Fusion)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 700mg

Meta Title & Description

Meta Title: Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist – Bold & Creamy
Meta Description: Try this exciting Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist! A spicy, creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for dinner or meal prep!

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Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist

Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist


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  • Author: Paula
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Description

Looking for a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish? This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of lasagna with the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken and the cool, tangy richness of ranch dressing. It’s the ultimate comfort food with an exciting, zesty kick! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding the family, or simply craving something different, this lasagna is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Buffalo Chicken Sauce:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded, preferably rotisserie chicken)

  • ½ cup buffalo sauce (more or less depending on your spice preference)

  • ¼ cup ranch dressing

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp ground paprika

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Mixture:

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Lasagna:

  • 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles (if using regular noodles)

  • If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Sauce

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Stir in the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

  • Let the chicken mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is well coated. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

  • Start by spreading a thin layer of the buffalo chicken sauce on the bottom of the dish. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking.

  • Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce (either regular or no-boil).

  • Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.

  • Add a layer of buffalo chicken sauce on top of the cheese.

  • Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese mixture, buffalo chicken sauce) until all ingredients are used up. Make sure the final layer is buffalo chicken sauce.

  • Top the lasagna with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 ½ cups).

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

  • Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

  • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

 

  • Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker and more flavorful option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds extra flavor to the dish.

Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add extra buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture or use a hotter variety of buffalo sauce.

Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: If using regular lasagna noodles, don’t overcook them. They should be slightly firm to the bite before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Use No-Boil Noodles for Convenience: No-boil lasagna noodles make this recipe even easier and quicker to prepare. Just layer them straight from the box without boiling!

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Cuisine: American

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