Description
This Creamy Spicy Buffalo Ranch Pasta is the ultimate fusion of bold, zesty buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing, making it the perfect comfort food for spice lovers. With tender shredded chicken and gooey cheddar cheese, this pasta dish is a savory and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing family meal!
Ingredients
250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
½ cup buffalo sauce
½ cup ranch dressing
½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
1 tbsp butter
¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and heavy cream to the pan. Stir in paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss everything together until well-coated and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
If you prefer more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken, or even use ground chicken.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Comfort Food, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings