Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

Short Description

This creamy buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole is a spicy, cheesy, and satisfying low-carb dish featuring tender cauliflower, shredded buffalo chicken, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or game day, this easy casserole is packed with bold flavor and protein!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Low-carb and keto-friendly – No pasta or rice, just wholesome cauliflower.
  • Super creamy and cheesy – A rich buffalo-ranch sauce coats every bite.
  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
  • Great for meal prep – Stays fresh and reheats well.
  • Perfect for buffalo wing lovers – All the spicy goodness without the mess!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole:

  • Cauliflower (cut into small florets)
  • Cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie or boiled)
  • Cream cheese (softened)
  • Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • Ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Green onions (for garnish, optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Blue cheese crumbles (for extra tang)
  • Cooked bacon bits (for smoky flavor)
  • Celery (finely chopped, for crunch)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Steam the cauliflower – Lightly steam or microwave cauliflower until slightly tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well to remove excess moisture.
  3. Prepare the buffalo sauce – In a bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Assemble the casserole – In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken and cauliflower with the buffalo sauce mixture. Stir in half the shredded cheese.
  5. Bake – Transfer to the baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with green onions, bacon bits, or blue cheese crumbles, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Extra spicy – Add diced jalapeños or extra buffalo sauce.
  • Mild version – Use less buffalo sauce and more ranch.
  • Dairy-free – Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
  • Loaded version – Add crispy bacon and extra cheese on top.
  • Vegetarian alternative – Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes! Thaw and drain well before using to prevent excess moisture.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any buffalo sauce works!

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing?

Yes! Mix Greek yogurt with a little garlic and lemon juice for a healthier alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully and adds great flavor.

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Drain the cauliflower well and avoid overcooking it before baking.

Can I add pasta instead of cauliflower?

Yes! Cooked penne or macaroni work well if you don’t need a low-carb version.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just check that your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, then top with cheese before serving.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve with celery sticks, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted veggies.

Conclusion

This creamy buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole is the perfect balance of spice, cheesiness, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb meal, an easy dinner idea, or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this casserole is a must-try. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy texture in every bite!

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Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Low-Carb

Description

This Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a cheesy, spicy, and delicious low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights! Made with tender cauliflower, shredded chicken, and a creamy buffalo sauce, it’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (or 4 cups frozen cauliflower)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Cauliflower

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Steam or microwave cauliflower florets until slightly tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Buffalo Sauce

  1. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Add shredded chicken and cauliflower to the bowl and toss until fully coated.
  2. Stir in ½ cup cheddar cheese and ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
  3. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 4: Bake & Finish

  1. Sprinkle the top with remaining cheddar cheese and blue cheese (if using).
  2. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
  2. Serve hot with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Notes

  • Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce.
  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Low-Carb Friendly: Perfect for keto and gluten-free diets.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

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