There’s something incredibly satisfying about the creamy warmth of mac and cheese, but when you add the zesty kick of Buffalo sauce, it transforms from ordinary to extraordinary. Picture this: a cozy evening at home after a long day, and the aroma of this Buffalo Mac and Cheese wafts through your kitchen, bringing smiles and a sense of comfort. In just 30 minutes, you can create a cheesy, luscious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a gathering with friends—because who doesn’t love a meal that brings everyone together? With its blend of tangy flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to whip up this easy, delicious twist on a classic comfort food!
Why is Buffalo Mac and Cheese perfect for you?
Creamy Comfort: This dish combines the best of mac and cheese with a spicy Buffalo twist, creating a comforting meal that’s anything but ordinary.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the bold flavors, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners that please everyone.
Customizable Fun: Adjust the heat level with the amount of Buffalo sauce you add, or make it vegetarian with sautéed veggies!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, serving up smiles and satisfaction with every bite, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a comforting dish that’s sure to be a family favorite!
For the Pasta
- Elbow Macaroni – A classic choice that perfectly holds the sauce; feel free to swap for any pasta shape you love!
For the Roux and Sauce
- Salted Butter – Adds richness to the dish; you can use unsalted butter but adjust the salt later.
- Yellow Onion – Brings depth of flavor; shallots are a great substitute if you have them on hand.
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; try ground white pepper for a milder taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens your cheese sauce beautifully; gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative.
- Whole Milk – Creates that creamy texture; any plant-based milk is a great dairy-free option.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luscious richness; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
For the Cheese
- Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese – The key flavor element; freshly grated melts better than pre-packaged options.
- Grated Pepper Jack Cheese – Introduces a delightful kick; substitute with Monterey Jack for less heat.
For the Protein and Flavor
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Boosts protein and flavors; any cooked chicken can be used.
- Buffalo-Style Hot Sauce – The star of the dish; Frank’s Red Hot is recommended, but adjust to your spice preference.
- Buttermilk Ranch Dressing – Complements the Buffalo flavor for extra creaminess; homemade ranch is especially tasty.
For Garnishing (Optional)
- Crumbled Blue Cheese – Adds a bold finish; try feta or goat cheese for a milder option.
- Celery Leaves – Provides a fresh garnish; chopped celery can work well too.
How to Make Buffalo Mac and Cheese
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce Base: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Sauté 1 diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Make Cheese Sauce: Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk for about a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens but does not boil, around 5 minutes.
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Incorporate Cheese: Lower the heat and add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated pepper jack cheese in batches. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Mix in Add-Ins: Fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup of Buffalo-style hot sauce, and 1/4 cup of buttermilk ranch dressing. Mix everything together until well combined and heated through.
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Serve and Garnish: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. Top with optional crumbled blue cheese and celery leaves for extra flavor and garnish. Serve warm!
Optional: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and broil just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to personalize your Buffalo Mac and Cheese with these fun, flavorful twists that will inspire your kitchen creativity!
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Meat Lover’s Delight: Substitute rotisserie chicken with ground turkey or beef for a hearty, meaty version. This swap introduces new textures and flavors that will delight meat aficionados.
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Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and fill the dish with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. This makes for a colorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal that even meat-eaters will love.
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Extra Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs for a delightful, crispy texture. Broil for a few minutes until golden for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Cheese Lover’s Twist: Use a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a rich, complex flavor. This combo melts wonderfully and adds different notes, elevating the comfort of your dish.
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Heat it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for those who crave an extra kick. This spice addition can transform the dish into a fiery feast, perfect for heat enthusiasts.
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Plant-Based Delight: For a dairy-free version, swap out the milk and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Pair with a nut-based cheese for a creamy and savory dish that everyone can enjoy.
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Buffalo Chicken Egg Bake: Transform your mac and cheese into a baked casserole by mixing in beaten eggs before baking. This dish is perfect for brunch, combining your favorite flavors in a new way.
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Ranch Flavor Bomb: Mix in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning when making the cheese sauce for an extra level of flavor. It’s a simple way to enhance the comforting experience with a familiar taste that everyone adores.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Mac and Cheese
- Smooth Sauce: Ensure the sauce base isn’t boiling when adding cheese to prevent clumping; this keeps your Buffalo Mac and Cheese creamy.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Always grate your own cheese for optimal melting; pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that hinder smoothness.
- Adjusting Spice: For a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of hot sauce or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, tailoring the dish to your heat preference.
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce, helping to achieve that perfect texture.
- Flavor Depth: Don’t rush the sautéing step; allowing the onions and garlic to become fragrant enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
What to Serve with Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
Elevate your meal by pairing this creamy delight with irresistible side dishes that complement its bold flavors.
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Celery Sticks:
Crunchy celery offers a refreshing contrast and balance to the richness of Buffalo Mac and Cheese. Enjoy them dipped in ranch for added flavor! -
Garlic Bread:
The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes a delightful companion. Perfect for sopping up any leftover cheese sauce! -
Simple Green Salad:
A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, providing a refreshing crunch and texture contrast. -
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
Sweet, charred corn pairs beautifully with the tangy Buffalo flavors. Try brushing it with a bit of lime and chili powder for an extra kick. -
Spicy Pickles:
The tangy heat from spicy pickles brings an exciting zing that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal. -
Beer or Sparkling Cider:
A light lager or fruity sparkling cider complements the dish’s spices and richness, making every bite feel even more indulgent.
Think of these options as vibrant companions that bring balance and joy to your table.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cheese sauce and mix it with the cooked pasta up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Also, consider shredding your rotisserie chicken and mixing it with the Buffalo sauce 1-2 days ahead to streamline your prep. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the pasta mixture on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed to retain creaminess. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, place Buffalo Mac and Cheese in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Serving Tip: Enjoy the dish again with fresh toppings, like extra buffalo sauce or blue cheese, for an elevated second serving!
Buffalo Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best in Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice and holds the sauce beautifully, you can really use any pasta shape you love—like shells or cavatappi—just make sure it’s one that can capture that creamy goodness!
How should I store leftovers of Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
Store those delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat gently on the stove or microwave; just be careful not to let it dry out!
Can I freeze Buffalo Mac and Cheese for later?
Very! For longer storage, transfer your Buffalo Mac and Cheese to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating—this will help maintain its creamy texture.
What if my cheese sauce comes out grainy?
No worries! If your cheese sauce is grainy, it could be due to a couple of reasons. Firstly, make sure you’re using freshly grated cheese, as bagged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. If it’s still a bit lumpy, you can blend the sauce with an immersion blender until smooth, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen it up.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily customize this Buffalo Mac and Cheese to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and flour. For dairy-free folks, swap in plant-based cheese and milk. Just ensure any additional proteins or toppings are allergen-free as needed. Always double-check any store-bought ingredients for potential allergens!
Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Your New Family Favorite Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Sauté 1 diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk for about a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir continuously until thickened, around 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated pepper jack cheese in batches. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1/2 cup of Buffalo-style hot sauce, and 1/4 cup of buttermilk ranch dressing. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. Top with optional crumbled blue cheese and celery leaves for garnish. Serve warm!