Let me just tell you, if you’re in the mood for something that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, my cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle is going to knock your socks off! Seriously, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of tender chicken smothered in spicy buffalo sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, is pure magic. And that ranch drizzle on top? Wow! It’s the perfect finishing touch that adds a cool, tangy contrast to the heat. Whether you’re hosting game night or just craving a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family. Trust me, they’ll be coming back for seconds!
Ingredients for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle
Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to create your cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle. I promise, once you have everything ready, it all comes together like a dream!
- 9 lasagna noodles: These are the backbone of your dish, so choose your favorite brand. You can use traditional or no-boil noodles, depending on what you have on hand.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own. Just make sure it’s tender and flavorful!
- 1 cup buffalo sauce: This is where the magic happens! Go for your favorite brand or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. Make sure it’s smooth and spreadable.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooier, the better! This melty cheese will create that wonderful cheesy layer we all crave.
- 1 cup ranch dressing: Drizzle it on top for that perfect tangy finish. I love using homemade ranch, but store-bought works just as well!
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor to the layers. Freshly grated is always best, but pre-grated will do in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: You’ll need this for greasing your baking dish and adding a little richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This gives your ricotta mixture a lovely depth of flavor. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use that instead!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This rounds out the flavors beautifully and complements the buffalo sauce perfectly.
How to Prepare Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle! First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for getting that golden bubbly top we all love.
While the oven is warming up, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. I usually go for al dente, so they hold up well in the layers. Once they’re done, drain and set aside.
Now, grab a bowl and mix your shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce until it’s well coated. This step is where all the flavor kicks in! In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with garlic powder and onion powder. This creamy mixture is going to be a game-changer.
In a greased baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom. Then, lay down your noodles, followed by a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a glorious layer of mozzarella on top.
Pop the lasagna in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is just divine! Once it’s out, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle that ranch dressing on top, and get ready to dig in!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for my cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Remember, if you swap out any ingredients or make adjustments, the nutritional info may change. But no matter what, you’re in for a tasty treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation that fits into any busy schedule.
- Layers of flavor with tender chicken and spicy buffalo sauce.
- Rich and creamy texture that’s oh-so-satisfying.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and spice levels.
- Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or cozy dinners at home.
Tips for Success
To make sure your cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle turns out perfectly, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t overcook your lasagna noodles; they should be al dente since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Also, layer your ingredients generously—don’t skimp on the buffalo chicken or cheese! It’s all about that flavor explosion. Letting the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial—it helps the layers set and makes serving easier. And if you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more buffalo sauce to the chicken mix! Lastly, don’t forget that ranch drizzle; it really ties everything together!
Variations of Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle! For a twist, try using barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a smoky flavor. You can also swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture. Want to add some veggies? Layer in some sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition. And for a cheesy extravaganza, mix in some pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk leftovers! If you’ve got any cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle left, you’re in for a treat later! To store, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or you can transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to indulge again, reheating is key! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you want to add a little extra love, drizzle a bit more ranch on top before serving! Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
To round out your meal, I love serving my cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna. For a heartier side, some garlic bread is always a hit! And don’t forget a chilled glass of lemonade or sweet iced tea to wash it all down. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dining experience!
FAQ About Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor instead of buffalo sauce. The lasagna will still be delicious, just with a different twist!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free lasagna noodles, this cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna with ranch drizzle can be enjoyed by everyone. Just check the labels to be sure!
How can I make it spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding more buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture or toss in some sliced jalapeños between the layers. You can even use spicy cheese, like pepper jack, for an extra kick!
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat! It’s a great way to save time for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with it?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some garlic bread. A crisp side balances the richness of the lasagna, making for a satisfying meal.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna topped with ranch drizzle.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
- In another bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Spread a layer of chicken mixture on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles over the chicken.
- Spoon a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the top before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of buffalo sauce.
- Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: cheesy buffalo chicken lasagna, ranch drizzle, buffalo chicken, lasagna