Can I make this lasagna less spicy for my family?

Absolutely! Reduce the buffalo sauce to 2-3 tablespoons for mild flavor, or serve additional sauce on the side so everyone can customize their heat level. You can also use a mild buffalo sauce brand or mix regular hot sauce with a bit of butter for a gentler kick.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes! Both regular and no-boil noodles work in this recipe. The sauce provides enough moisture to cook regular noodles perfectly. If using no-boil noodles, you may want to add an extra ¼ cup of milk to the bechamel for additional moisture.

Is there a substitute for blue cheese if I don't like it?

Blue cheese provides that authentic buffalo wing experience, but it's definitely optional. Substitute with extra mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or even pepper jack for a different but equally delicious flavor. A sprinkle of grated parmesan adds nice complexity as well.

Can I prepare this lasagna the day before serving?

This lasagna is perfect for make-ahead meals! Assemble it completely, cover with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time.

Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna transforms everyone’s favorite wing flavors into a hearty, comforting pasta dish. The spicy buffalo chicken mixture, creamy bechamel sauce, and layers of gooey cheese create a mouthwatering meal that brings the sports bar to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals, game day gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something uniquely delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavors: This isn’t your grandmother’s lasagna! The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, juicy chicken, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s familiar yet excitingly different.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat – perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will love this creative twist on classic lasagna. It’s comfort food with a kick that appeals to both pasta lovers and wing enthusiasts.
Balanced Meal: Despite its indulgent flavors, this dish includes protein, vegetables, and carbs in one complete package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Chicken: The foundation of our buffalo flavor experience, providing lean protein and a lighter alternative to beef.
White Onion and Celery: Creates the classic mirepoix base that echoes traditional wing accompaniments, adding sweetness and crunch.
Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and moisture to balance the spicy buffalo sauce while creating a more substantial sauce.
Buffalo Hot Sauce: The star ingredient that delivers that distinctive tangy, spicy buffalo flavor we all crave.
Butter: Essential for creating both the rich bechamel sauce and authentic buffalo flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Works with butter to create a roux, thickening the bechamel sauce to perfect lasagna consistency.
Milk: Transforms the roux into a creamy, velvety bechamel that balances the spicy buffalo elements.
Lasagna Pasta: Creates distinct layers that hold up to the hearty fillings. No need to pre-cook if using regular lasagna noodles!
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides that stretchy, melty goodness that makes lasagna irresistible.
Blue Cheese Crumbles: An authentic buffalo wing companion that adds tangy, funky notes to cut through the richness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Heat Level Adjustments

Dial the spice up or down by adjusting the buffalo sauce amount. Use mild buffalo sauce for sensitive palates or add a dash of cayenne pepper for serious heat seekers.

Cheese Options

Not a blue cheese fan? Substitute with feta for tanginess or simply use extra mozzarella. For an ultra-creamy version, add a layer of ricotta mixed with ranch seasoning.

Protein Swaps

Try shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken for a different texture, or use ground turkey for an even leaner option.

Veggie Boosters

Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach to incorporate more vegetables without compromising flavor.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken, diced onion, and sliced celery, cooking for 7-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables have softened. Stir in buffalo hot sauce and diced tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it gently bubble while you prepare the bechamel.

Step 2: Make the Bechamel Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour thoroughly until you’ve created a smooth paste (this is your roux). Increase heat to medium-high and gradually whisk in milk. Continue whisking constantly to prevent lumps as the mixture heats and thickens. Once it reaches a creamy, pourable consistency, remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Begin Assembly

Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Spread a few spoonfuls of bechamel sauce on the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Create the Layers

Start with a layer of about 1 cup of meat sauce spread evenly across the bottom. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top, slightly overlapping. Spread ⅓ of the bechamel sauce over the noodles, then sprinkle with ¼ of the mozzarella. Top with 1½ cups of the buffalo chicken mixture. Repeat these layers twice more.

Step 5: Add the Final Layer

For the top layer, place the last 4 noodles, spread the remaining cup of meat sauce to cover completely, and finish with the remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles across the top for that authentic buffalo wing experience.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the lasagna loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes until the cheese is beautifully browned and bubbly. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Meat Sauce Consistency: The buffalo chicken mixture should be moist but not swimming in liquid. If it seems too watery, simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Perfect Bechamel: For a silky-smooth sauce, warm the milk slightly before adding it to the roux, and keep whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
No-Boil Option: Regular lasagna noodles will cook perfectly in this recipe without pre-boiling, saving time and dishes.
Cheese Distribution: Reserve enough mozzarella for a generous top layer – this creates that Instagram-worthy cheese pull when serving.
Resting Time: The hardest part is waiting, but allowing the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.

How to Serve

This hearty Buffalo Chicken Lasagna pairs beautifully with simple, cooling side dishes that complement its bold flavors:

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing to echo traditional wing accompaniments. Garlic bread or breadsticks provide perfect vehicles for sopping up extra sauce.

Garnishes

Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for authentic wing vibes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Beverage Pairings

A cold beer is the classic choice for buffalo flavors, but a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a slightly sweet Riesling can balance the heat nicely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing in Advance

Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours before baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover lasagna in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve on the second day!

Freezing

For future meals, freeze the whole lasagna (before or after baking) or individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated leftovers in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. For frozen lasagna, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or bake from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour.

FAQs

Can I make this lasagna less spicy for my family?

Absolutely! Reduce the buffalo sauce to 2-3 tablespoons for mild flavor, or serve additional sauce on the side so everyone can customize their heat level. You can also use a mild buffalo sauce brand or mix regular hot sauce with a bit of butter for a gentler kick.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes! Both regular and no-boil noodles work in this recipe. The sauce provides enough moisture to cook regular noodles perfectly. If using no-boil noodles, you may want to add an extra ¼ cup of milk to the bechamel for additional moisture.
Is there a substitute for blue cheese if I don’t like it?

Blue cheese provides that authentic buffalo wing experience, but it’s definitely optional. Substitute with extra mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or even pepper jack for a different but equally delicious flavor. A sprinkle of grated parmesan adds nice complexity as well.
Can I prepare this lasagna the day before serving?

This lasagna is perfect for make-ahead meals! Assemble it completely, cover with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna brings together the best of two beloved comfort foods in one spectacular dish. It’s the perfect solution when you’re torn between Italian night and wing cravings! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite. Give it a try – I promise your taste buds will thank you!