This Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a twist on the classic dish! With creamy cheese and spicy buffalo sauce, it’s perfect for a fun dinner or game day snack.
I love how the kick from the buffalo sauce brings the mac and cheese to life! Serve it up with a side of celery sticks, and you’ve got comfort food at its best. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using elbow macaroni because it holds the cheese well, but you can switch it up with cavatappi or any other pasta shape you have on hand. Just make sure it cooks evenly!
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast adds protein. If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut. You can also go meatless by adding vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower instead.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, while mozzarella makes it creamy. If you want a little extra kick, try pepper jack cheese, or mix in some blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor!
Buffalo Sauce: Use your favorite brand of buffalo wing sauce. If you don’t like it too spicy, start with less and tweak as you taste. You can also use hot sauce if that’s what you have.
How Do I Get a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Getting the cheese sauce just right is key to a creamy mac and cheese. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a roux: Cook butter and flour together for about a minute to create a base.
- Add milk gradually: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps. This helps the sauce thicken smoothly.
- Low heat with cheese: Once the mixture is thick, lower the heat before adding cheese to prevent it from clumping. Stir continuously until melted.
With these steps, you should have a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce that coats the pasta beautifully!
Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
For The Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust more or less to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or tasty game day gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make The Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken your sauce!
3. Add Milk & Thicken:
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking while whisking for about 4-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
4. Add The Cheeses:
Next, lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Season The Sauce:
Mix in the buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce to your spice preference!
6. Combine Pasta & Chicken:
Add the drained pasta and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Gently stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Serve & Garnish:
Transfer your delicious buffalo mac and cheese to serving bowls. Top with fresh chopped parsley or chives, and a sprinkle of black pepper. If you like, serve it with crispy celery sticks or extra buffalo sauce on the side!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and spicy Buffalo Mac and Cheese! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Cavatappi, shells, or even penne work well and add a nice twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the chicken and add extra veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Tofu can also be a great protein substitute!
What if I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
If you don’t have buffalo sauce, you can use hot sauce instead or mix some ketchup with hot sauce for a similar taste. Adjust the amount to match your desired spice level!
