Description
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a bold and spicy twist on the classic comfort food. Combining creamy mac and cheese with the tangy heat of buffalo sauce and tender pieces of chicken, this dish is an irresistible fusion of flavors. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice and indulgence in their meals, and it’s a great way to elevate your mac and cheese game.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese, then continue to cook until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Pour the buffalo chicken mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and top with blue cheese crumbles (if using) and fresh parsley or green onions for garnish. Serve hot.
Notes
- Spicy kick: Add more buffalo sauce to increase the heat if you like it spicier.
- Cheese lovers: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a creamier, more complex flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Topping ideas: You can top the mac and cheese with crushed tortilla chips for a bit of crunch or sprinkle with extra shredded cheese before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
