Description
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful twist on the traditional Italian favorite, marrying spicy buffalo chicken with creamy ricotta, tangy blue cheese, and melty mozzarella. This hearty casserole combines tender lasagna noodles layered with saucy buffalo chicken and rich cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for those who love a little heat and crave comfort food, this recipe serves 8 and makes a delicious main dish for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Components
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
Cheese Mixtures
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna layers once assembled.
- Prepare Buffalo Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, stirring until the chicken is fully coated in the spicy sauce.
- Mix Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and thoroughly combined for a creamy layer.
- Cook Noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Drain and Cool Noodles: Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Start Layering: Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- First Noodle Layer: Place 4 lasagna noodles over the buffalo chicken base to form the first layer of the lasagna.
- Ricotta Spread: Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles to add creamy texture and flavor contrast.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese and half of the blue cheese (if using) over the ricotta layer for richness and tang.
- Second Layer Repeat: Layer with buffalo chicken mixture, then 4 more noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, another third of mozzarella cheese, and the rest of the blue cheese.
- Final Layer: Place the last 4 noodles on top, spread the remaining buffalo chicken mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for a golden finish.
- Cover for Baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture during the initial baking phase.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and let flavors meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown to create a perfect crust.
- Rest: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to set the layers and make slicing easier.
- Cut and Garnish: Slice the lasagna into squares and garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally drizzling with extra buffalo sauce and accompany with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Dig into this spicy, cheesy lasagna that is sure to be a new favorite!
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level.
- Blue cheese is optional but adds a nice tangy contrast to the ricotta and mozzarella.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting helps maintain clean layers.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American