Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Name: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 6 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Every time I whip up this dish, it’s met with enthusiasm and second helpings from friends and family. It’s not just comfort food; it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for game days or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:21:27.934Z

When I first experimented with Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, I wasn't sure how the spicy buffalo sauce would pair with the creamy cheese. However, the mixture turned out to be extraordinary, providing a perfect balance of flavors. I made sure to use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for extra creaminess that coats each pasta piece beautifully.

My favorite tip is to bake the dish for a few minutes after mixing everything together. This gives the top a slight crunch while keeping the inside cheesy and moist. It’s that delightful contrast that turns a classic mac and cheese into something special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold buffalo flavor meets creamy cheese
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Quick to make using simple ingredients

The Importance of Pasta Type

Choosing the right pasta is crucial to achieving the perfect Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Elbow macaroni works wonderfully because its shape allows it to hold onto the cheese sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. You can also experiment with other pasta shapes, like cavatappi or shells, which add a fun twist and unique texture to the dish.

When cooking the pasta, be sure to follow the package instructions closely to avoid overcooking. El dente pasta is ideal as it provides a nice bite that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can be useful for adjusting the sauce consistency later if needed.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the star of this dish, bringing a creamy texture and rich flavor that balances out the heat of the buffalo sauce. Whisking the flour into the melted butter creates a roux, which thickens the sauce beautifully. Ensure that you cook it for about two minutes to remove the raw flour taste, giving your sauce a smoother finish.

When adding the cheeses, use freshly shredded varieties instead of pre-shredded options. The preservatives in pre-shredded cheese can hinder melting, resulting in a grainy texture. For a slightly different flavor profile, you might consider mixing in a hint of blue cheese or using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni
6 cups water
1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cooked chicken

For Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Chopped green onions for garnish

Mix everything together in a large bowl and prepare to cook!

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and let thicken for about 5 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, buffalo sauce, cooked chicken, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Mix Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish.

Add Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, consider adding crumbled blue cheese on top before baking. Adjust the buffalo sauce amount to suit your spice preference!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese a day in advance, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Just follow the steps up until the baking point, then store the unbaked mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply preheat the oven and bake as instructed; it might require a few extra minutes if coming straight from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for a quicker option. Just add a splash of milk to keep the sauce from drying out while reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, a sprinkle of chopped green onions not only adds color but also a fresh crunch that complements the creamy texture of the mac and cheese. You can also serve this dish alongside a crisp salad to cut through the richness, balancing your meal nicely.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach for a healthier touch, or tweak the heat level by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce. If you want to elevate the dish further, try adding a touch of ranch seasoning or crumbled bacon for an added flavor depth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.