This Easy Buffalo Mac and Cheese brings a cozy twist to a classic dish. Creamy cheese meets zesty buffalo sauce for a tasty meal that’s both comforting and spicy!
If you’re like me, the cheesy goodness keeps you going back for more! It’s super quick to make, so I whip it up on busy weeknights when I’m craving something fun.
You can top it with crunchy breadcrumbs or even some extra cheese for that melty goodness. Trust me, you’ll want this on your dinner menu often!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, try shells, penne, or even rotini—anything that catches the cheese well!
Shredded Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you need a vegetarian option, swap in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower instead.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this dish a strong, flavorful kick. If you want something milder, go for mild cheddar. For extra creaminess, try using gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Buck Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference. You can also substitute it with barbecue sauce for a milder flavor or a mix of both for variety.
How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Making a creamy cheese sauce is key to this recipe. Follow these steps closely for the best results:
- Start by melting butter and mixing in flour to create a roux. This thickens your sauce.
- Pour in the milk gradually while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring to help it thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Add your assorted cheeses and keep stirring until everything is melted and smooth.
- If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk!
Taking your time at this stage will ensure your cheese sauce is perfectly creamy and delicious!
Easy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or similar pasta
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
For the Chicken and Flavor:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Buffalo Mac and Cheese takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients, plus about 20 minutes to cook everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce later.
3. Add the Milk:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and can coat the back of a spoon, which should take around 5 minutes.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Keep stirring until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Mix in the Buffalo Sauce:
Add the buffalo wing sauce to the cheese mixture and stir to combine. Taste your mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
6. Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
Gently add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the sauce. Stir everything together until all the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the buffalo mac and cheese to a serving bowl. For a beautiful finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if you like a bit more heat.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in right away while it’s warm and gooey. This dish is sure to be a hit for anyone who loves a bit of spice in their comfort food!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture in your mac and cheese.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the shredded chicken. You can add vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers to maintain a hearty texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the pasta. Just store the cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stove and add the cooked pasta and chicken just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy comfort again!
