Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, seasoning with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, buffalo sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Toss in the uncooked pasta, stirring to combine well. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the pasta is cooked, fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, letting it melt until it’s creamy.
- If desired, garnish with chopped parsley, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This hearty dish shines best on its own, but consider serving it up with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Garlic bread is always a fantastic sidekick, adding a delightful crunch. Want a little heat? You can toss some sliced jalapeños or drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Pasta is easy. Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly, particularly if frozen!
Pro Chef Tips
To take your dish to the next level, consider searing the chicken with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added depth. You might also add diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to sneak in some extra nutrition. Lastly, if you want a little crunch, topping with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips adds a fabulous texture.
Creative Twists
Feel free to play around with flavors! Try using different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick, or switch the buffalo sauce for a barbecue sauce for a completely new taste. You can also make it vegetarian-friendly by replacing chicken with chickpeas or tofu, capturing the essence of buffalo flavors without the meat.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time from start to finish is about 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any short pasta like fusilli or elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if the pasta shape has a different cook time.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. You can also use the microwave, stirring occasionally until evenly warmed.
Now that you have this delightful One-Pot Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Pasta recipe in your back pocket, spice up your meal routine and enjoy the wonderful balance of flavors!
