Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and the bold, spicy flavor of buffalo sauce. This dish is a hit at parties, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique twist on classic comfort food. This recipe walks you through making a delicious Buffalo Mac and Cheese that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its rich, creamy sauce and spicy kick, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Ultimate Buffalo Mac and Cheese
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Ultimate Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Create the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and light golden.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack cheeses. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Buffalo Sauce: Stir in the buffalo sauce until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and chicken, stirring until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Mix the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, blue cheese crumbles, melted butter, and chopped parsley. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter.
Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Ultimate Buffalo Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni
Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta choice for mac and cheese. Its small, curved shape holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. Cooking the pasta to al dente helps it maintain its shape and texture when baked.
Cheese Trio
The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack cheeses creates a rich, flavorful sauce. Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor; mozzarella adds creaminess and meltability; and pepper jack adds a subtle kick with its bits of jalapeño peppers.
Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce is the star ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive flavor. Made from hot sauce, butter, and vinegar, it adds a spicy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your heat preference.
Shredded Chicken
Adding cooked, shredded chicken to the mac and cheese makes it a more substantial dish. It also pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce, reminiscent of buffalo chicken wings. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy mac and cheese. Mixing the breadcrumbs with butter ensures they turn golden and crunchy in the oven.
Blue Cheese Crumbles
Blue cheese adds a tangy, savory note to the topping. Its strong flavor pairs well with the buffalo sauce, creating a classic flavor combination. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute with additional cheddar or leave it out altogether.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk
Using a combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a rich and creamy cheese sauce. The higher fat content in these dairy products ensures a smooth, luscious texture that clings to the pasta.
By following this detailed recipe, you’ll create an Ultimate Buffalo Mac and Cheese that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, spicy buffalo flavor, and crunchy topping will make this dish a favorite at your next party. Enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors and the comfort of homemade mac and cheese with a twist!
