Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna: A Flavor-Packed Twist on Classic Comfort

Step 2: Make the Buffalo Sauce

If you’re using homemade buffalo sauce, combine the hot sauce, butter, vinegar, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Once combined, pour the sauce over the shredded chicken and toss to coat. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Noodles

1. Boil the Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them out on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil. Mix everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Layer the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture at the bottom. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the chicken. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Add another layer of buffalo chicken, followed by more noodles, and then the remaining cheese mixture. Finish by layering the remaining buffalo chicken on top.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and sharp cheddar cheese over the top layer of chicken.

Step 6: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let the lasagna rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad.

Recipe Variations:

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Use the same buffalo sauce and ranch dressing for the flavor profile.
2. Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add extra hot sauce to the buffalo sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the cheese layers.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free alternative.
4. Add Bacon: For a smoky twist, add crumbled crispy bacon between the layers of buffalo chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 1 day in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze leftover lasagna?
Yes! Once cooled, you can wrap the leftover lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 60-75 minutes.

Q3: Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
Absolutely! For convenience, store-bought ranch dressing works just as well in this recipe. However, for a richer flavor, homemade ranch dressing can take it to the next level.

Q4: How spicy is this lasagna?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the buffalo sauce you use. If you prefer a milder lasagna, opt for a less spicy buffalo sauce or add less hot sauce to the mixture.

Notes:

• If you’re looking to make the dish a little lighter, you can use reduced-fat versions of ricotta, mozzarella, and ranch dressing.
• The chicken can also be cooked ahead of time and shredded, making this dish a quicker meal during the week.
• Adding a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese on top before baking gives the lasagna an even more authentic buffalo flavor.

Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 490
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna is a bold twist on a beloved classic, offering a delicious combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch, and rich cheeses. It’s the perfect comfort food for those who love a little heat in their meals. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor. Don’t forget to try out some of the variations to make it your own, and enjoy the zesty goodness