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Buffalo chicken flavors have surged in popularity in contemporary cuisine, becoming a staple in various dishes ranging from appetizers to main courses. The spicy and tangy notes of buffalo sauce combined with the savory taste of chicken have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food enthusiasts everywhere. Among the myriad of recipes inspired by this beloved flavor profile, the Spicy Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake stands out as a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Discover a delightful twist on a classic comfort food with this Spicy Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Bursting with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, tender shredded chicken, and a rich blend of cheeses, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare, it combines pasta with creamy sauces for a satisfying meal. Garnish for extra flair and enjoy a deliciously hearty experience in every bite. Perfect for those seeking both spice and comfort!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) uncooked penne pasta

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)

1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust according to your spice preference)

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup freshly chopped green onions (for garnish)

1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

      Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a spacious mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream together using a whisk until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually incorporate the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, along with salt and pepper to create a well-combined, flavorful sauce.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shredded chicken and drained penne pasta into the creamy sauce mixture. Sprinkle in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then stir thoroughly until every component is evenly coated in the sauce.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the buffalo chicken pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the mixture with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, followed by a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

            Bake the Pasta: Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. The dish is ready when the cheese melts into a bubbly layer and develops a beautiful golden brown color.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. Before serving, add a finishing touch with the freshly chopped green onions and optional blue cheese crumbles for added richness and crunch.

                Enjoy: Serve the pasta hot, scooping generous portions onto plates. Relish the delightful combination of spicy buffalo flavor intertwined with creamy cheese-infused pasta!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the baking dish or scoop individual portions into bowls. Garnish with additional green onions for a pop of color and a side of crisp celery sticks to channel those classic buffalo wings vibes!