Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving something that perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors, look no further than this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole. It’s comfort food elevated with a kick of buffalo wing sauce, tender shredded chicken, and a luscious Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite of penne pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something indulgent yet simple to prepare. Combining the richness of classic Alfredo with the boldness of buffalo wings, this casserole hits all the right notes, making it a guaranteed winner at your dinner table.

Why It Works Every Time

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole is a foolproof recipe because it brings together complementary textures and flavors that everyone loves:

• Perfectly cooked penne pasta holds the sauce without becoming mushy, providing a satisfying bite.
• Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness, making it a complete meal.
• Buffalo wing sauce infuses the dish with a vibrant, spicy tang that wakes up your taste buds.
• Rich Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan creates a smooth, velvety texture that balances the heat.
• Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully on top, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
• Green onions and fresh parsley add freshness and a pop of color to brighten the plate.

The combination of these layers ensures every forkful is flavorful and comforting. Plus, the casserole format means you can make it ahead, bake it when ready, and enjoy leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s the detailed rundown of ingredients that make this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole so irresistible:

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The tubular shape captures sauce perfectly.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Juicy and tender chicken is key; rotisserie or poached works great.
• 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce: Adds that signature spicy buffalo flavor.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy Alfredo base.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For gooey, melty topping.
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions: Adds mild oniony brightness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For subtle heat and balance.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Garnish to brighten and freshen the dish.

Every ingredient here plays a role in layering flavor and texture, resulting in a casserole that satisfies on every level.

Equipment Breakdown

To whip up this delicious casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools that help make the process smooth and straightforward:

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
• Large mixing bowl: To combine the pasta, chicken, sauces, and seasonings.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts.
• Oven-safe casserole dish (about 9×13 inches): For baking the assembled pasta.
• Whisk: For smoothly blending the Alfredo sauce ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To mix everything evenly.

Having these on hand makes the recipe a breeze and guarantees consistent results.

Method: Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-11 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth and combined. This will form your creamy Alfredo base.

Step 3: Mix Chicken with Buffalo Sauce

In another bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce until well coated. This bold, spicy chicken will be the star of the casserole.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce mixture, gently folding to coat all the noodles. Then fold in the Buffalo chicken and half of the chopped green onions, evenly distributing the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to your greased oven-safe casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the remaining green onions and fresh parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

This recipe is a perfect balance between spicy and creamy, cheesy and comforting. For a twist on baked pasta dishes, you might also love the Baked Chicken Ziti Alfredo or the Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Bake.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Chicken: Substitute with cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie duck for a different protein.
• Buffalo wing sauce: Use a milder hot sauce or a spicy BBQ sauce if you want less heat.
• Heavy cream: Swap with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Cheese: Use a vegan Parmesan and mozzarella alternative to make it dairy-free.
• Pasta: Use gluten-free penne or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

These swaps maintain the spirit of the dish while catering to various dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Flavor Logic

The magic of this Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole lies in the marriage of spicy heat with creamy coolness. The Buffalo sauce delivers a punch of tangy spice, which is mellowed out perfectly by the richness of the Alfredo sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan. The mozzarella on top adds gooey texture and a mild, melty contrast. Garlic powder and black pepper deepen the savory notes without overpowering the dish. Fresh green onions and parsley add that finishing touch of brightness, cutting through the richness and adding layers of flavor complexity. This balance keeps every bite exciting and satisfying.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole at its best, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Fresh herbs like parsley are best added after reheating to retain their vibrant flavor and color.

Common Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds plenty of flavor. Just shred it and toss with the Buffalo sauce as directed.

What can I use instead of Buffalo wing sauce?

If you prefer less heat, substitute with your favorite hot sauce, spicy BBQ sauce, or even a mild sriracha blend. Adjust to taste depending on your spice preference.

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

Prepare the casserole up to the assembly step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cheese topping and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your Buffalo wing sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Baked Chicken Ziti Alfredo – A creamy baked pasta with tender chicken and cheesy goodness.
• Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Bake – A rich, cheesy chicken casserole perfect for any occasion.
• Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – A low-carb, flavorful variation with a spicy kick.

Wrap-Up

This Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of heat, making it a winning dinner option any night of the week. The combination of tender penne, shredded chicken coated in buffalo sauce, and a luscious Alfredo sauce creates a comforting dish that tastes like it took hours to make but comes together quickly. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and green onions to add that perfect finishing touch. Next time you want a cozy, flavorful meal, this dish has got you covered.

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