Buffalo Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. It combines creamy, cheesy pasta with the bold flavor of buffalo sauce, creating a dish that’s both cozy and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will bring everyone to the table.

This version has the perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The tender macaroni soaks up the sauce beautifully, while the cheese adds that irresistible pull with every bite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and loaded with flavor in every forkful.

If you love creamy, restaurant-style mac and cheese, you’ll also enjoy trying this Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe. Both recipes share that rich, cheesy comfort you crave but with their own unique flavor twists.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and spicy in perfect balance
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Customizable for any spice level
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Great for game day or cozy dinners
• Freezer-friendly for meal prep

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Best For	Spice Level	Freezer-Friendly
Family dinners, game nights	Medium	Yes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.

Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Stir in the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust spice level based on preference.

Step 6: Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing until everything is well coated.

Step 7: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

Step 9: Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
• Add blue cheese crumbles for a restaurant-style kick.
• Try using different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for more depth.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding roasted cauliflower.
• Adjust buffalo sauce for mild or spicy taste preferences.
• For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle before baking.

Servings

This recipe serves about 4–6 people, depending on portion size.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Mac and Cheese pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it as a side dish for grilled chicken or steak. It’s a great dish for potlucks and family gatherings because it reheats well and stays creamy.

Why It’s Good For You

While indulgent, this Buffalo Mac and Cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium from the chicken and cheese. You can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and light cream. It’s a satisfying meal that fuels your body and gives you lasting energy.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to make with simple ingredients	Can be high in fat if too much cheese is used
Creamy, flavorful, and customizable	Slightly spicy for sensitive eaters
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly	Best enjoyed fresh for ideal texture

Nutrition Information

Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbs	Fiber	Sodium
430	22g	18g	40g	2g	690mg

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use penne, shells, or rotini—any pasta shape that holds sauce well works great.

Q2: What type of chicken works best?
Cooked and shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken breast is ideal for this recipe.

Q3: Can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely! Just reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a mild version for a gentler flavor.

Q4: How can I make it extra cheesy?
Add an extra half cup of shredded cheese on top before baking for a gooey, golden crust.

Q5: Can I freeze Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q6: What goes well with this dish?
A simple green salad or steamed broccoli balances the richness perfectly.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Mac and Cheese recipe is a bold, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Its creamy texture, spicy kick, and gooey cheese make it a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, satisfying meals. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite you’ll crave again and again.