Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells

The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and cool, creamy ranch tucked inside tender pasta shells is the ultimate comfort food experience. This dish brings together bold flavors and cheesy textures in a fun and crowd-pleasing way.

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or need a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love, these Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells deliver big on flavor without a lot of fuss. They’re oven-baked to perfection and topped with bubbly cheese that adds that irresistible finishing touch. Perfect served with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie)

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, cream cheese, half of the mozzarella, cheddar, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.

4. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each cooked shell.

5. Place the filled shells in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra green onions before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Irresistible Comfort of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies every craving, Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells deliver in every bite. This easy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the hearty texture of baked pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings the whole family to the table, fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and earns you compliments every time. Whether you’re hosting guests, meal prepping for the week, or just want something indulgent after a long day — this dish hits all the right notes.

The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

Buffalo chicken has become a beloved American classic. Originally inspired by the spicy wings invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, the flavor has since found its way into dips, sandwiches, pizzas, and more. But pairing it with pasta? That’s where the magic really happens.

This recipe takes the tangy, spicy goodness of buffalo sauce and combines it with creamy ranch, shredded chicken, and melted cheese — all stuffed into jumbo pasta shells and baked until golden. It’s like your favorite game-day appetizer got a gourmet upgrade and turned into a full meal.

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

One of the main reasons this recipe is such a hit is its balance of bold and creamy flavors. The buffalo sauce brings the heat, while ranch and cream cheese cool things down with a smooth, tangy finish. The melted mozzarella and cheddar add gooey richness that ties it all together. It’s spicy without being overpowering, indulgent without being too heavy.

Another reason people love this dish? It’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dinner that feels like a special treat — even on a busy weeknight.

Benefits of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells

Here are a few reasons why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:

• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish! You can adjust the spiciness by using mild buffalo sauce or adding extra heat for spice lovers.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat throughout the week. It tastes just as good the next day.
• Customizable: Add veggies like spinach or diced bell peppers, swap in different cheeses, or use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter twist.
• Potluck-Perfect: This dish is ideal for gatherings, game nights, and parties. Just pop it in a casserole dish and bring it along. It’ll be the first thing gone.

Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Shells

To make your pasta shells really shine, here are a few tips from the test kitchen:

• Use rotisserie chicken: Not only does it save time, but it also adds extra flavor. The moist, shredded texture mixes beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Jumbo shells should be al dente so they hold their shape while baking. Overcooked shells can fall apart during assembly.
• Add a crispy topping: For a little crunch, try sprinkling some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan on top before baking.
• Serve with a side: These shells are rich and filling. Balance them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Make It Your Own

Part of the charm of this recipe is its versatility. Want to switch things up? Here are a few delicious variations:

• Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Shells: Add a drizzle of Alfredo sauce before baking for an extra-creamy version.
• Spicy Ranch Twist: Mix in a few chopped jalapeños for extra heat or use pepper jack cheese for a bold flavor boost.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and stuff the buffalo chicken filling into halved bell peppers for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a buffalo cauliflower filling instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly meal.

What Makes It Better Than Other Buffalo Chicken Recipes?

While buffalo chicken dip or wings are often the go-to, this pasta shell version stands out for a few key reasons:

• It’s a full meal: No need for sides or extra effort — everything is built into each bite.
• It’s easier to serve: Individual shells make portioning simple, whether you’re dishing it out to kids or serving at a dinner party.
• It reheats like a dream: While wings and dips can lose their crisp or texture, these baked shells keep their flavor and creaminess even after reheating.

A Comfort Classic That Wows Every Time

In a world of complicated recipes and endless scrolls for dinner ideas, Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells remind us of the joy in simple, satisfying cooking. It’s hearty, flavorful, and feels like a warm hug at the end of the day. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a cheesy pasta dish with a kick — this one’s for you.

So go ahead — grab your baking dish, turn on the oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most crave-worthy meals you’ll ever make. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells are everything you want in a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal — bold flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness all wrapped up in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping ahead for busy days, or looking for a dish that wows at potlucks and parties, this one checks all the boxes.

Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request at your dinner table. Spicy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Buffalo Chicken Pasta Shells might just become your new favorite way to enjoy that classic buffalo chicken flavor.