This Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on a classic dish! Packed with creamy cheese and a kick of spicy buffalo sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
I love how quick this recipe is to throw together. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness. Perfect for a cozy night in or when friends come over! 🧀🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese, but feel free to use any pasta you like! Fusilli, shells, or even penne work wonderfully too. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Chicken: Adding cooked chicken makes this dish heartier. If you prefer vegetarian, chickpeas or a mix of veggies can be great alternatives. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda for a different taste. If you want it to be lighter, try using low-fat cheese options.
Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat. If you like it milder, use half the amount or replace it with a mild hot sauce. For a sweeter touch, consider adding a bit of honey to balance out the spice.
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth, creamy cheese sauce is key to a successful mac and cheese! Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a roux: Melt butter and whisk in flour over medium heat until smooth. This helps create a thick base.
- Pour in the milk slowly while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming, ensuring a silky sauce.
- Cook until thickened: Keep stirring as you heat it up for 3-5 minutes to help it thicken up nicely before adding cheese.
- Add the cheese gradually: Once your sauce is thick, lower the heat and add your shredded cheeses bit by bit, stirring until melted.
This technique helps ensure a velvety sauce every time!
Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Optional Protein:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total to pull this scrumptious dish together. This includes 10 minutes for prep, 15 minutes for cooking, and a quick bake time if you choose that option. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
If you plan to bake the dish for a warm topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) now. This way, you’ll be ready to pop it in once everything is mixed up!
2. Cook the Pasta:
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 the pasta and set it aside while you make the cheese sauce.
3. Make the Roux:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This creates your roux, which will help thicken your sauce.
4. Add the Milk:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Keep on whisking as the mixture cooks for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens nicely.
5. Melt in the Cheeses:
Lower the heat a bit, and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to your thickened milk mixture. Stir until everything is meltingly smooth—a cheesy dream!
6. Add Buffalo Sauce and Seasoning:
Mix in the buffalo wing sauce and garlic powder. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as you like. Don’t be shy with the buffalo sauce if you really love that kick!
7. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the drained pasta and, if you’re using it, the cooked chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is well-coated with that creamy goodness.
8. Baking Option (Optional):
If you love a bubbly, golden top, transfer your mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes until it’s bubbly and slightly golden on top. You can skip this step and serve it straight from the stovetop if you prefer!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Take it out of the oven, if you baked it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a beautiful finishing touch.
10. Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Cheesy Buffalo Mac and Cheese hot! It’s a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive in and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just cook it according to the package instructions since gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times. Enjoy your mac and cheese without the gluten!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also increase the amount of buffalo wing sauce to suit your spice level preference!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You could also consider adding protein-rich options like chickpeas or tofu!
