Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Before we dive into the deliciousness of buffalo chicken mac and cheese, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it. This dish is hearty on its own, but a few simple sides can really elevate the dining experience
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 28 minutes mins
Total Time 43 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 774 kcal
- 1 16 ounce package elbow macaroni
- 3 cups whole milk
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 rotisserie chicken shredded
- 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- ½ cup RedHot sauce or more to taste
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Be sure not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven later. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to cook without browning.
Gradually add the whole milk, constantly whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Next, add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper to the sauce. Now, slowly incorporate the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Stir until they fully melt and create a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 3: Mix in the Chicken and Buffalo Sauce
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce mixture, stirring gently until all the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. If you need to loosen the sauce, feel free to add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the entire mixture into a greased baking dish. If you like that crispy top, sprinkle additional cheese and crumbled blue cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to create a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Extra Creamy Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese while mixing the cheese.
- Spice Adjustment: If you’re unsure about the spice level, start with less buffalo sauce and gradually add to taste.
- Store Leftovers: This dish stores well! Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Reheat Tips: When reheating, add a dash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in increments of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
Serving: 564gCalories: 774kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 51gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 20.5gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 147mgSodium: 3433mgFiber: 3gSugar: 23g
Keyword Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe