Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of Buffalo wings or creamy ranch dressing, this recipe is for you! It combines the best elements of both, creating a lasagna that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The heat from the Buffalo sauce is perfectly balanced by the coolness of the ranch dressing, making each bite an explosion of taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, and it’s easy to assemble, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With its comforting layers and delicious toppings, this lasagna is bound to become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 12 cooked lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Chicken and Buffalo Sauce
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the Buffalo sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce, ensuring every piece is infused with that spicy flavor.
Step 3: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a rich and tangy element to the lasagna that complements the spicy chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
Spread a generous layer of the chicken and Buffalo sauce mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle a handful of shredded mozzarella and some crumbled blue cheese over the top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top to create a bubbly, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. For an extra touch, drizzle with additional ranch dressing before serving.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist hot, and watch it disappear as friends and family dig in!
Serving Suggestions:
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side of celery sticks with ranch dressing for a complete Buffalo wing experience.
Tips:
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of Buffalo sauce or use a milder hot sauce.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 850mg
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a Ranch Twist is a fun and delicious twist on traditional lasagna that brings a little heat and a lot of flavor to your table. It’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique dish. The combination of spicy Buffalo chicken and creamy ranch cheese is truly irresistible. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this flavorful adventure!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! Just shred the chicken and mix it with the Buffalo sauce as directed. - What if I don’t like blue cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can omit it or substitute it with extra mozzarella or another cheese of your choice. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. - How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed. - What type of Buffalo sauce should I use?
You can use any brand you prefer, but I recommend a medium heat Buffalo sauce for the best balance of flavor and spice. Adjust according to your heat preference!
