I cannot wait to share this incredible Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe that has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, spicy Buffalo-coated chicken, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses all baked into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. What really takes it over the top is the cool, tangy ranch drizzle that balances the heat perfectly. This dish brings together the comfort of classic lasagna and the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken in one unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each contributing a unique flavor, texture, and color to the final dish. From creamy cheeses to spicy Buffalo sauce, every component plays its part perfectly.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked according to package instructions to create sturdy yet tender layers.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein, ready to soak up that spicy Buffalo sauce.
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce: Brings just the right kick—adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy and smooth texture to balance the spice.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a dreamy, gooey layer throughout the lasagna.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, slightly tangy flavor to complement the mozzarella.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty finish to the ricotta mix enhancing depth.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for perfect layering.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Creamy and indulgent, it adds moisture and richness between layers.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: The cool drizzle that ties together all the spicy and creamy elements.
- 1 tbsp milk (optional): Used to thin the ranch drizzle if you want it a little lighter.
- Green onions, chopped: Fresh garnish that adds vibrant color and a mild crunch.
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional): For those who want an extra punch of heat on top.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your lasagna will bake evenly and release easily, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a medium bowl, toss your shredded cooked chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce until every piece is well coated. This step infuses the chicken with that unmistakable spicy, tangy Buffalo flavor that’s integral to this dish.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix it until it’s smooth and well-blended. This mixture adds a creamy contrast to the spicy chicken, giving each bite a luscious texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Begin by placing 3 cooked lasagna noodles at the bottom of your baking dish. Spread a third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by a third of the Buffalo chicken. Then sprinkle an even layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top. Drizzle a generous spoonful of Alfredo sauce over this layer, adding moisture and richness. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with noodles, Alfredo sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top for that perfect golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the entire dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let all those flavors meld and the cheeses melt beautifully. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, signaling it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once baked, let your lasagna cool for 5-10 minutes to set before drizzling with ranch dressing. If you want a lighter drizzle, thin the ranch with a little milk. Garnish with chopped green onions and, if you like more heat, a splash of extra Buffalo sauce. This final step brings harmony to the dish—cool, fresh, and spicy all at once.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe into generous squares and serve while hot. This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own or alongside simple sides like a crisp green salad or traditional garlic bread.
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions are a must for adding a pop of color and a fresh crunch. The ranch drizzle not only enhances the flavor but also creates an inviting, creamy finish that cools the heat from the Buffalo sauce. For those who love a bit more spice, an extra drizzle of Buffalo sauce on top is pure bliss.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple arugula or mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Classic garlic bread with a buttery, garlicky crust also complements the spicy and cheesy layers perfectly. The contrast makes every bite of lasagna even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the lasagna in individual ramekins for a personalized touch—perfect for parties or casual dinners. You could also sprinkle some extra chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added color and aroma. And if you really want to wow your guests, present it with mini bowls of ranch and Buffalo sauce on the side for customizable flavor boosts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully and makes a great meal prep option. Assemble and bake as directed, then allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, covering loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring halfway if possible, until hot and melty again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella, cheddar, ricotta, and Parmesan create the classic creamy and melty texture, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a sharper cheese like Gruyere for extra flavor depth.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level depends mainly on the Buffalo wing sauce you choose. You can tone down the heat by using a mild Buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. The ranch drizzle also helps balance the spice beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas tossed in Buffalo sauce for that spicy, satisfying bite. The cheeses and sauces remain the same and will keep it delicious.
Do I need to boil the noodles before assembling?
Yes, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions before layering to ensure they are tender and easy to work with. This prevents the dish from becoming watery and helps the layers meld perfectly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an easy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with Ranch Drizzle Recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food that excites your taste buds and satisfies your craving for bold, cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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 fusion of spicy Buffalo chicken and creamy Italian lasagna layers. Featuring tender lasagna noodles, shredded chicken tossed in tangy Buffalo wing sauce, rich ricotta and cheese mixtures, and a smooth Alfredo sauce, this dish is baked to bubbly perfection and finished with a cool ranch drizzle and green onion garnish. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing main course ideal for family dinners or entertaining football fans.
Ingredients
Lasagna Layers
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Ranch Drizzle & Garnishes
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to thin ranch dressing)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Extra Buffalo sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and 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 all the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is 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, then layer a third of the Buffalo chicken on top. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the chicken. Drizzle a portion of the Alfredo sauce evenly over this layer. Repeat this layering two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with Alfredo sauce and all the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the assembled lasagna dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, 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 baked, allow the lasagna to cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Thin the ranch dressing with milk as needed, then drizzle it generously over the top of the lasagna. Garnish with chopped green onions and drizzle extra Buffalo sauce if desired for added spice and flavor.
- Serve: Slice the lasagna into servings and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce depending on your preferred spice level.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it set for cleaner slices.
- You can cook the chicken ahead of time or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Use milk to thin the ranch dressing to your desired consistency for drizzling.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
