Description
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, spicy twist on your favorite comfort food. It’s packed with high-protein ingredients like shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese, then layered with melty mozzarella and cheddar. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 cups cooked penne pasta
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
1/2 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth, optional but recommended)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 packet ranch-style seasoning mix
1/3 cup buffalo-style hot sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until just tender, then drain well.
3. If using, blend the cottage cheese until smooth to create a creamy texture.
4. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, hot sauce, and half of both cheeses until well combined.
5. Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the bowl and mix until everything is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
8. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
You can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter buffalo sauce. For extra protein, use chickpea pasta. To make it ahead, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American