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Buffalo Ranch Cauliflower Chicken Casserole - Creamy, Spicy, and Comforting

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets (about 6–7 cups)
  • 2–3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce (use your favorite brand; adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
  • Nonstick spray for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. Roast the cauliflower. Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread on a sheet pan and roast for 18–22 minutes, until crisp-tender with a little color. This step keeps the casserole from getting watery.
  3. Make the buffalo ranch base. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in garlic and red onion, if using.
  4. Add the chicken. Fold the chicken into the sauce. Taste and adjust salt or heat level. If you like it milder, add a splash more ranch; for more heat, add extra buffalo sauce.
  5. Combine with cauliflower. Add the roasted cauliflower to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Mix in half the cheddar and half the mozzarella.
  6. Assemble. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella. Sprinkle blue cheese on top if you want that classic buffalo-bleu vibe.
  7. Bake. Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  8. Finish and rest. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions. Serve warm.