The garlic aroma fills the kitchen as the pasta simmers, creating a mouthwatering scene. Just like that, buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary, and there’s barely enough left for seconds.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re racing against the clock. Unlike traditional pasta recipes that require long cooking times, this version uses pre-cooked pasta to cut down on prep time and maximize flavor. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Get ready to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
- Quick to Prepare: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Savory Flavor Bomb: The garlic and parmesan combo creates a rich, umami-packed experience that’s hard to resist.
- Creamy Texture: Each bite offers a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta for maximum enjoyment.
- Meal Versatility: Pair it with grilled chicken or veggies for a delightful twist or serve as a hearty side dish.
- Filling Comfort Food: It’s super satisfying, but be warned—portion control can be tricky since it’s so good!
buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta Ingredients
Pasta:
penne pasta (12 oz) — choose your favorite pasta shape for a twist.
Chicken:
grilled chicken breast (2 cups, sliced) — use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Sauce:
heavy cream (1 cup) — opt for half-and-half for a lighter version.
parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated) — fresh cheese enhances the flavor and texture.
garlic (4 cloves, minced) — adjust to taste for more or less garlic punch.
olive oil (1 teaspoon) — helps sauté the garlic to release its flavor.
salt (1 teaspoon) — enhances all the flavors in the dish.
black pepper (1 teaspoon) — fresh ground adds a nice kick.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon) — don’t skip this key blend of herbs.
fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish) — brightens up the dish visually and taste-wise.
*Full measurements in the recipe card below.*
How to Make buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Once the pasta’s cooked, drain it and set it aside in a large mixing bowl. Don’t let it sit too long; it’ll stick together.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Sauté 4 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes — don’t let it brown.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy; you’ll notice it thickening slightly.
5. Season the Sauce: Mix in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir for another minute to blend all flavors together well.
6. Combine Everything: Add the grilled chicken slices and drained pasta into the sauce mixture. Toss everything gently to coat; make sure each piece gets covered in that delicious buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor! *Exact quantities in the recipe card below.*
How to Store buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
- Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta right after making it, but if you need to leave it out, don’t let it sit for more than 2 hours.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container and it’ll keep well for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken, but it’s still tasty.
- Freezer: You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might change a bit after thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until it’s warmed through; look for that bubbly sauce as a sign it’s ready. Just remember, the crispy topping softens in the fridge!
What to Serve with buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta?
It’s rich enough to enjoy on its own, but adding sides with contrasting flavors and textures can elevate the meal experience.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine offers a refreshing texture contrast that balances the creaminess of it.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crunchy side adds a satisfying texture difference while enhancing the garlic flavor.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness provides an acidity balance that cuts through the richness of this dish.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy cabbage adds a cool temperature contrast and brightens each bite with its tangy dressing.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: A protein boost that complements it well; just grill for 10 minutes for ease.
- Marinated Cucumbers: Their vinegar-based marinade brings acidity and freshness, making each mouthful feel lighter—just let them marinate for 30 minutes.
- Pesto Caprese Salad: This light, colorful option adds brightness and freshness; it’s quick to prepare in about 15 minutes.
- Fruit Medley: Fresh fruits like berries or melon provide a sweet yet acidic contrast that refreshes your palate between bites.
buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta Variations
Here’s how to play with this recipe to suit your taste preferences and elevate your dish.
- Creamy Garlic Spinach: Add 2 cups fresh spinach with the heavy cream for a nutrient boost.
- Lemon Zest Upgrade: Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon zest when adding garlic for a refreshing citrus kick.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the other spices for an extra heat dimension.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms in olive oil before adding garlic and cream for earthiness.
- Parmesan Substitute: Use 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in 1 tablespoon fresh basil along with parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Extra Creaminess: Incorporate an additional ½ cup heavy cream just before serving for a richer sauce.
Make Ahead Options for buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
I like to prep buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta ahead by cooking the penne and mixing it with the sauce. You can do this up to two days in advance. Just store everything in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be ready when you are. I usually keep the grilled chicken separate until just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy. The sauce holds well for a few days, but I’ve found that the pasta tends to absorb too much moisture if left too long. Reheat everything gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed. Enjoy your meal!
buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta Recipe FAQs
Can I make buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. Store the pasta and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce on low heat until warmed through, then toss with the pasta. Just be careful not to overcook when reheating!
Why did my buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta turn out too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, it might be due to cooking the heavy cream too long or using too much parmesan cheese. To fix it, add a little more cream or a splash of chicken broth while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that the sauce should coat the pasta smoothly but still be pourable. Adjust slowly to avoid making it too thin.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter as substitutes for heavy cream in this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using unsweetened almond milk combined with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it up. Keep an eye on the simmering process; if it doesn’t thicken properly, continue cooking gently until you achieve that creamy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your sauce while sautéing the garlic. Start with a small amount and taste as you go so you can adjust according to your spice preference. Just remember that spices can intensify over time, so don’t go overboard right away!
Final Thoughts on buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
Buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta stands out for its rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and pasta. The combination of heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan creates a sauce that’s not only indulgent but also quick to whip up for a satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and convenience, this is it—make it once and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. Let me know how yours turned out in the comments.
buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced grilled chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
