If you adore comfort food with a zesty kick, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles intermingling with spicy Buffalo chicken, creamy ricotta, and a luscious blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, all smothered in velvety Alfredo sauce. Then, to tie it all together, a cooling ranch drizzle adds that perfect tangy balance that elevates every bite. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines the best of Italian and American flavors in one unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but flavor-packed ingredients is the secret to this dish’s success. Each element brings its own magic, whether it’s the creamy ricotta adding smoothness, the spicy Buffalo sauce delivering that signature heat, or the trio of cheeses providing irresistible gooeyness and depth.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked according to package instructions for that perfect tender but sturdy base.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein that soaks up all the Buffalo flavor.
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce: Adjust the spice level to your liking and coat the chicken for that signature tangy heat.
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, mild contrast that balances the spice.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for the perfect stretchy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, slightly nutty flavor to the cheesy layers.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory punch to the ricotta mixture.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving it a rich, custardy texture.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Luxuriously creamy and buttery, this sauce ties every layer together.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: The cooling drizzle that adds creaminess and a hint of herbaceousness.
- 1 tbsp milk (optional): Use to thin the ranch dressing if you want a smoother drizzle.
- Green onions, chopped: A fresh, mild onion crunch for garnish and color.
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional): For those who crave even more heat on top.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring that it’s ready to bake your masterpiece to golden, bubbly perfection. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Toss the Buffalo Chicken
In a medium bowl, lovingly toss your shredded cooked chicken with Buffalo wing sauce until every morsel is coated in that vibrant, spicy goodness. This step infuses the protein with bold flavor that will permeate the whole dish.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Blend
Whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until silky smooth. This creamy mixture acts like a glue, binding the lasagna layers while adding richness and cheesy depth.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles as your first foundation. Spoon a third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly. Follow up with a third of the Buffalo chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses for that irresistible cheesy melt. Drizzle some Alfredo sauce on top for creaminess. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing off with noodles, Alfredo sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. With each layer, your lasagna transforms into a delicious mosaic of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Cover your beautifully layered lasagna with foil and bake it for 25 minutes. The foil locks in moisture to keep everything tender. After that, remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes so that golden, bubbly cheese crust forms on top—an absolute showstopper!
Step 6: Add Ranch Drizzle and Garnishes
Let your lasagna rest for 5 to 10 minutes once it comes out of the oven. This short wait helps it set for perfect slicing. Thin the ranch dressing with a splash of milk if you prefer a lighter drizzle, then generously drizzle it over the top. Sprinkle chopped green onions and add extra Buffalo sauce if you want an extra punch of heat. The ranch drizzle cools everything down and adds irresistible flavor contrast.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe into hearty portions and watch as everyone digs in with delight. The layers of heat, creaminess, and cheese all melt together in each irresistible bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions add a crisp bite and a pop of color that brightens the dish. A little extra Buffalo sauce drizzle amps up the spice level for heat lovers, while an additional ranch drizzle cools and adds creamy richness. You can also sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper or chopped parsley for an aromatic finish.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp mixed green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy Caesar salad to add freshness against the rich, cheesy layers. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are fantastic to soak up every last bit of the thoroughly delicious sauces.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, bake the lasagna in a large dish and serve in rustic slices for a family-style meal. To impress guests, plate individual portions topped with a neat ranch drizzle design and a quirky sprinkle of chopped chives or microgreens. You can even turn it into a lasagna bake by layering it with crispy fried onions on top for extra texture and wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any uneaten lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully as it rests, making the leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish on hand for busy nights, freeze the fully assembled but unbaked lasagna in a freezer-safe dish wrapped well with foil and plastic. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave leftovers covered loosely with a damp paper towel for a quicker fix, but the oven method maintains the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just shred it and toss with Buffalo sauce, then proceed as usual. It adds convenient flavor and tenderness without any extra cooking time.
How spicy is the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe?
The heat level largely depends on the Buffalo wing sauce you choose. You can easily adjust it to mild or extra hot to suit your taste buds. The ranch drizzle helps balance and cool the spiciness for everyone to enjoy.
Can I substitute Alfredo sauce with something else?
While Alfredo sauce adds a rich and buttery creaminess that pairs beautifully with Buffalo flavors, you could swap it for a bechamel or even a creamy tomato sauce for a different twist. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
To turn this into a meatless meal, substitute the chicken with roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms tossed in Buffalo sauce. The cheese and sauces still deliver all the comforting richness.
How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery?
Make sure to cook the noodles properly and drain them well. Also, don’t skip mixing the eggs into the ricotta as they help set the filling firmly during baking. Properly draining the shredded chicken also prevents excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe, it will quickly become your new favorite go-to for feeding family and friends. It hits all the right notes of spicy, creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious comfort food. So grab your ingredients, embrace the layering fun, and get ready to savor every joyful bite!
Print
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle is a flavorful twist on classic lasagna, combining spicy Buffalo chicken with creamy ricotta and cheesy layers, finished with a drizzle of cool ranch dressing. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and a comforting Italian-American dish.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 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
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 1 cup for mixture and 1 cup for layering)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sauces and Garnishes
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to thin ranch dressing)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat 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, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce, tossing well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Set the mixture aside.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In another bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Start by placing 3 cooked lasagna noodles at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread a third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the Buffalo chicken mixture. Sprinkle a portion of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top. Drizzle with Alfredo sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a top layer of noodles, Alfredo sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Add Ranch Drizzle and Garnish: Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Thin the ranch dressing with milk if desired, then drizzle it over the top of the lasagna. Garnish with chopped green onions and add extra Buffalo sauce if you want an extra kick.
- Serve: Slice the lasagna and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Buffalo wing sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- To make ranch drizzle thinner and easier to drizzle, mix ranch dressing with milk as needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
