Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
If you’re looking to jazz up your dinner rotation with a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and cheesy goodness, the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe is your new best friend. This irresistible lasagna layers tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, nestled between perfectly cooked noodles. Finished with a cool, tangy ranch drizzle and a sprinkle of fresh green onions, every bite is a mouthwatering fusion of fiery spice, rich creaminess, and comforting familiarity. Trust me, this is a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe plays a crucial role—from the spice-packed Buffalo wing sauce that brings heat and tang to the layers of cheeses that create that signature ooey-gooey texture. Simple but fresh ingredients combine here to give you guaranteed crowd-pleaser results.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked just right to hold all the layers together without falling apart.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein, shredded for easy layering and perfect sauce absorption.
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce: Adds the signature spicy kick—adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese: Gives creamy richness and balances the heat.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Essential for that stretchy, melty lasagna goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp flavor and a beautiful golden hue.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts savory depth and umami in every bite.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for smooth, even layers.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Creamy and luscious, it adds a velvety texture that complements the spice.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: The cool counterpoint that brings everything together with its tang and herbaceous notes.
- 1 tbsp milk (optional): Use if you want to thin the ranch drizzle for easier drizzling.
- Green onions, chopped: Freshness and color to finish off the dish beautifully.
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional): For those who love to dial up the heat even more.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your lasagna won’t stick and will bake evenly with that perfect golden top.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken with Buffalo Sauce
In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with Buffalo wing sauce until every shred is thoroughly coated. This step is where the spicy magic begins, infusing the chicken with that unforgettable tang and heat.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Ricotta Filling
Grab another bowl and combine ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix them together until perfectly smooth. This silky mixture will be the creamy layer that balances out the bold Buffalo flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
Lay three lasagna noodles evenly over the bottom of your baking dish to create the foundation. Spread a third of your ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the Buffalo chicken mixture. Sprinkle on some mozzarella and cheddar, then drizzle with a bit of Alfredo sauce. Repeat this beautiful layering sequence two more times, saving the remaining sauces and cheeses for the final layer on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to keep things moist and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil so the top can brown and bubble up nicely during the last 15 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with the most incredible aromas, promising a delicious payoff.
Step 6: Add That Signature Ranch Drizzle
Once out of the oven, let your lasagna rest for 5 to 10 minutes—it helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Thin the ranch dressing with milk if needed for a smooth drizzle, and generously drizzle it over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish. Feeling adventurous? Add more Buffalo sauce on top to satisfy your spicy cravings.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your masterpiece and serve it piping hot. This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe shines alongside a crisp salad or warm garlic bread, making every bite a complete, balanced meal.
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped green onions not only adds a pop of vibrant color but also gives a refreshing mild onion flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich and spicy layers. For an extra flavor kick, a drizzle of additional Buffalo sauce amps the heat without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with lighter sides such as a simple mixed green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette or some crisp garlic bread to mop up every cheesy, spicy bite. The freshness of your sides balances the richness and heat perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, try serving the lasagna in individual mini casserole dishes—each guest gets their own cheesy, spicy portion that’s as charming as it is delicious. You can also set up a “Buffalo Bar” with extra ranch, blue cheese crumbles, and celery sticks for personalized toppings and added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors meld even more as it rests. Just cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe freezes beautifully. Before baking, assemble the lasagna in a foil pan, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen—add about 20 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for a quick fix or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through. To keep the top cheesy and melty, uncover during the last few minutes of reheating. Add fresh ranch drizzle and green onions after warming for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this lasagna?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred it finely and mix with Buffalo sauce as directed.
How spicy is this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe?
The spice level largely depends on the Buffalo wing sauce you choose. Mild wing sauce makes this dish more approachable, while hotter options ramp up the heat. You can always adjust the amount of sauce to suit your taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or a hearty vegetable like roasted cauliflower tossed in Buffalo sauce. Keep the cheese and sauces to preserve that signature flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh on serving day for maximum flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have Alfredo sauce on hand?
You can make a quick homemade Alfredo by melting butter, whisking in heavy cream, and stirring in grated Parmesan until smooth. It’s easy and delicious, or you can use a creamy béchamel sauce as a substitute.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe enough—it’s one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate but with a spicy surprise. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Go ahead, dive in, and make this show-stopping lasagna a new favorite in your home. You won’t regret it!
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Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna combines the spicy kick of Buffalo wing sauce with creamy, cheesy layers of ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and Alfredo sauce. Baked to perfection and topped with a cool ranch drizzle and green onions, this hearty lasagna is a crowd-pleasing fusion of comfort food with a flavorful buffalo twist.
Ingredients
Lasagna Base
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce (adjust for spice level)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for the ricotta mixture)
Additional Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for layering)
Sauces and Garnishes
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to thin ranch dressing)
- Green onions, chopped
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, toss the shredded cooked chicken with Buffalo wing sauce until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate the flavors.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna – First Layer: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, forming the base layer.
- Assemble the Lasagna – Cheese and Chicken Layers: Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Next, spread one-third of the Buffalo chicken mixture. Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top, and drizzle a little Alfredo sauce over that.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times – noodles, ricotta mixture, Buffalo chicken, cheeses, and Alfredo sauce – ending with a final layer of noodles topped with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Add Ranch Drizzle and Garnish: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Thin the ranch dressing with milk if desired, then drizzle it evenly over the lasagna. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra Buffalo sauce for additional heat if preferred.
- Serve: Slice the lasagna and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Buffalo wing sauce to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente according to package directions to ensure perfect texture after baking.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set up for cleaner slices.
- You can substitute store-bought Alfredo sauce with homemade for a richer taste.
- For a lighter ranch drizzle, thin the dressing with milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American