Welcome to a culinary adventure that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the comforting layers of classic lasagna. Our Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle is a dish that will surely become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and a lot of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a hearty dinner option, this lasagna is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle. Firstly, it combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of ranch dressing, creating a flavor profile that’s both exciting and comforting. Secondly, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it a versatile and economical meal option. Lastly, the layers of cheese and pasta make it a satisfying and filling dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
For the Ranch Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to thin)
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional)
How to Make This Recipe
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the buffalo wing sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and eggs until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture over the chicken.
- Drizzle some Alfredo sauce over the cheese mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remaining chicken mixture, the remaining cheese mixture, and more Alfredo sauce.
- Top with the final layer of noodles and spread the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prepare the Ranch Drizzle: While the lasagna is baking, mix the ranch dressing with milk (if using) to thin it out slightly.
- Serve: Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the top of each serving and garnish with chopped green onions and extra buffalo sauce, if desired.
Success Tips
- Cook the Noodles Al Dente: To prevent the lasagna from becoming too soggy, cook the lasagna noodles al dente according to the package instructions.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or choose a milder variety. Conversely, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more.
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and melting consistency.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas mixed with buffalo sauce.
Nutrition
This recipe serves approximately 8-10 people. The nutritional information per serving (based on 10 servings) is as follows:
- Calories: 550
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 35g
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. It’s already cooked and shredded, making it a convenient option.
Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the lasagna before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as instructed.
Conclusion
Our Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle is a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy both your comfort food cravings and your desire for something a little spicy. With its layers of tender pasta, creamy cheese, and tangy buffalo chicken, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that everyone will love!