One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta is the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and hearty flavors. It brings together tender chicken, flavorful sausage, and a rich buffalo ranch sauce, all cooked together in one dish for easy preparation and cleanup.

• One-pan convenience – Everything cooks in a single baking dish, minimizing mess.
• Bold flavors – Spicy buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with cool, creamy ranch dressing.
• Hearty & satisfying – Packed with protein from chicken and sausage.
• Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels or swap ingredients to fit your taste.

If you enjoy buffalo chicken wings or creamy pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

SAVE THIS!

---

Preparation Phase & Tools Needed

Before you start, gather the necessary equipment and ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools

• Large oven-safe baking dish – A deep dish prevents spills and ensures even cooking.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – Essential for chopping vegetables and slicing sausage.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Accurately measure ingredients for consistent results.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing ingredients before baking.

Preparation Tips

• Chop ingredients in advance – Pre-cut vegetables and proteins speed up assembly.
• Use an oven-safe dish – Ensures even heat distribution for properly cooked pasta and meat.
• Adjust spice level – Reduce or increase buffalo sauce to match your heat preference.

---

Ingredients

Proteins

• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped

Liquids & Sauces

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
• ¼ cup ranch dressing

Pasta & Seasoning

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions

---

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, combine:

• Sliced chicken sausage
• Diced chicken breasts
• Chopped red bell pepper and onion
• Diced tomatoes, including the juices
• Chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing
• Uncooked pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything well, ensuring the liquid evenly coats the pasta and proteins.

Step 4: Bake Until Cooked Through

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. The dish is ready when:

• The chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)
• The pasta is tender but not overcooked

Step 5: Stir & Add Toppings

After baking, stir the dish to evenly distribute flavors. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. The residual heat will help melt the cheese.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm. For extra flavor, drizzle with more buffalo sauce or ranch dressing.

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great meal prep option, as leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day.

Would you like to explore ingredient swaps or alternative cooking methods?

How to Serve One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

This dish is hearty and full of bold flavors, making it a complete meal on its own. However, pairing it with the right side dishes or garnishes can elevate the dining experience.

Serving Ideas

• Drizzle with extra sauce – Add a little more buffalo sauce for extra heat or ranch dressing for a creamier texture.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs – Chopped parsley or cilantro can add a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
• Top with crispy bacon – A few bacon crumbles provide a smoky, crunchy element.
• Add a squeeze of lemon – A bit of acidity balances the heat and richness.

For a balanced meal, consider serving this pasta alongside fresh vegetables, a light salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

---

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

To ensure the best results, avoid these common pitfalls when making One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta.

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Since chicken breast can dry out quickly, be sure to:

• Dice the chicken into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Check for doneness at 25 minutes rather than waiting until the full 30 minutes.
• Remove from the oven as soon as the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

2. Pasta Drying Out

If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and becomes dry:

• Make sure all pasta is submerged in liquid before baking.
• Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture while cooking.
• If needed, stir in a splash of extra chicken broth before serving.

3. Sauce Not Coating the Pasta Well

To ensure an even distribution of sauce:

• Stir everything thoroughly before baking.
• Mix well after removing from the oven to ensure all pasta is coated.
• Let the dish sit for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken.

4. Dish is Too Spicy

Buffalo sauce brings heat, but if it’s too intense:

• Reduce the buffalo sauce to ¼ cup and add extra ranch dressing for balance.
• Mix in a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a milder, creamier dish.
• Serve with a side of cooling vegetables like celery or cucumber slices.

5. Cheese Not Melting Properly

If using cheese, ensure it melts evenly by:

• Sprinkling it on immediately after baking while the dish is hot.
• Using finely shredded cheese, which melts more quickly.
• Covering the dish for 2-3 minutes after adding cheese to help it melt.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll achieve a creamy, flavorful pasta with the perfect texture and balance.

---

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Since this dish is rich and bold, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance the meal. Here are eight great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side for scooping up the creamy sauce. The mild, garlicky flavor balances the spice of the buffalo sauce.

2. Ranch Coleslaw

A cool, creamy coleslaw with a ranch dressing base adds crunch and freshness, helping to mellow out the heat of the pasta.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper add a slightly crispy texture and a caramelized flavor that pairs well with the rich sauce.

4. Corn on the Cob

Sweet, juicy corn complements the heat of the buffalo sauce while adding a natural sweetness to the meal. Grilled or steamed corn works equally well.

5. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy pasta.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes help balance out the heat and add a touch of natural sweetness. A simple preparation—baked with a bit of butter and salt—works best.

7. Loaded Mashed Potatoes

If you want a truly indulgent meal, serve the pasta with creamy mashed potatoes topped with sour cream, cheese, and green onions. The creaminess complements the bold flavors of the dish.

8. Steamed Green Beans

For a lighter option, steamed green beans with a bit of lemon juice and garlic provide a simple, healthy side that doesn’t compete with the flavors of the pasta.

These side dishes offer a mix of light, fresh, creamy, and indulgent options to create a well-rounded meal.

---

How to Make This Dish for a Crowd

If you’re serving this pasta for a gathering, here are a few ways to make it easier:

• Double the recipe – Use a larger baking dish and increase ingredient amounts accordingly.
• Prepare in advance – Assemble everything in the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
• Serve buffet-style – Offer extra toppings like chopped green onions, bacon bits, extra cheese, and additional ranch or buffalo sauce so guests can customize their plates.

This dish works well for game-day parties, casual family dinners, or meal prep for the week.

Expert Tips for the Best Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

To achieve the best flavor and texture, consider these expert tips:

1. Use Quality Ingredients

• Opt for high-quality chicken sausage with natural seasonings for better flavor.
• Use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts rather than pre-cooked chicken for juicier results.
• Choose a good-quality buffalo wing sauce to enhance the dish’s spice and tang.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

• For milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce and add extra ranch dressing.
• For extra heat, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• If serving guests with different spice preferences, offer buffalo sauce on the side.

3. Experiment with Different Cheeses

• Sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor.
• Mozzarella creates a gooey, melty topping.
• Pepper jack adds a little extra spice.
• Blue cheese crumbles bring a classic buffalo wing-inspired taste.

4. Make It Healthier

• Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Use low-fat ranch dressing to cut down on calories.
• Replace half the chicken broth with Greek yogurt for a creamier but lighter sauce.

5. Add More Vegetables

• Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition.
• Bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms work well in this dish.
• Chopped carrots or celery can bring in traditional buffalo wing flavors.

---

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat

Reheating properly ensures the pasta stays moist and flavorful.

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to evenly distribute heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta seems dry.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a little extra liquid if needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Preventing Dry Pasta When Reheating

Pasta can absorb sauce over time, making it drier when reheated. To prevent this:

• Stir in a little extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce before reheating.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to account for the cold start.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Sausage?

If you don’t have chicken sausage, try these alternatives:

• Turkey sausage – A leaner option with great flavor.
• Smoked sausage – Adds a deeper, smoky taste.
• Andouille sausage – Spicier with a Cajun-inspired kick.
• Bacon crumbles – Adds a crispy, smoky alternative.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini or penne with:

• Bowtie (Farfalle) – Holds sauce well.
• Fusilli – Twisted shape helps coat with sauce.
• Elbow macaroni – A smaller pasta that works great.
• Gluten-free pasta – Choose a sturdy option that won’t break apart.

4. What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?

You can make your own buffalo sauce by mixing:

• ½ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot)
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

5. Can I Make This Dish in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Here’s how:

• Add all ingredients except pasta and cheese into a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
• Stir in cooked pasta and cheese just before serving.

6. Is This Dish Too Spicy for Kids?

For a kid-friendly version:

• Reduce buffalo sauce to ¼ cup or less.
• Add extra ranch dressing to balance the heat.
• Serve with a mild side dish like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.

7. What’s the Best Way to Make This Dish Extra Creamy?

For an ultra-creamy version, try:

• Adding ½ cup of cream cheese to the mixture before baking.
• Mixing in Greek yogurt or sour cream after baking.
• Using heavy cream instead of some of the chicken broth.

8. How Do I Know When the Dish Is Done?

• Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
• Pasta should be tender but not mushy.
• The sauce should be thickened and well absorbed.

---

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and savory chicken and sausage creates a bold, satisfying dish.

With simple preparation, minimal cleanup, and the ability to customize it to your taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner, a meal prep option, or an easy dish to serve for gatherings, this one-pan pasta delivers.