This Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on the classic comfort dish. With creamy cheese and a spicy kick from buffalo sauce, it’s extra tasty!
If you love cheese and a bit of heat, this is the perfect recipe for you. I like to top mine with some crunchy breadcrumbs for a nice finish. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto cheese sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini if you prefer.
Chicken Breast: Cooked chicken adds protein and heartiness. For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce. If you’re not a fan, you can use mild cheddar or even pepper jack for an extra kick.
Buffalo Sauce: This is where the spice comes from! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For milder flavor, use a hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot or mix in some ranch dressing for balance.
Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy texture. You can swap it for 2% milk, but avoid skim milk for creaminess; almond milk also works well if you’re dairy-free!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about technique. Follow these steps to ensure a successful outcome:
- Start by making a roux. Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour for about 1-2 minutes to cook it slightly—this removes the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add warmed milk while whisking continuously. This helps prevent lumps from forming and thickens the sauce evenly.
- Cook on medium heat until the sauce thickens before adding your cheese. This ensures a creamy consistency.
- Don’t rush! Take your time to melt the cheese over low heat, stirring consistently. This keeps it smooth and melty.
Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: blue cheese crumbles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes making the cheese sauce and mixing everything together. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
2. Making the Roux:
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure it doesn’t burn.
3. Creating the Cheese Sauce:
After the roux is ready, gradually whisk in the warmed milk a little at a time. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Adding the Cheese:
Once your sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, allowing them to melt completely into the sauce. This should result in a deliciously creamy cheese sauce!
5. Incorporating the Buffalo Sauce:
Now it’s time to kick up the flavor! Add the buffalo sauce to your cheese mixture. Stir well to combine and taste. You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on how spicy you’d like it. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Mixing in the Pasta and Chicken:
Next, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the buffalo cheese sauce, gently stirring until everything is evenly coated and mixed well.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the mac and cheese into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some blue cheese crumbles on top for an extra tasty twist!
Enjoy this creamy, spicy, cheesy comfort food perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game day treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can skip the chicken and add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also use plant-based protein alternatives if you’d like a heartier option.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover buffalo mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding extra buffalo sauce or mixing in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Just be sure to taste as you go so it suits your heat preference!
