When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese. But what’s even better? A Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! Packed with spicy, tangy Buffalo chicken flavor and topped with a crispy layer of goodness, this dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Imagine a bubbling, golden-brown casserole that tantalizes your taste buds with each bite—can you already feel your mouth watering?
Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together the heartiness of pasta, the richness of cheese, and a punch of flavor that’ll make you want to come back for more. Interestingly, Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo, New York, and quickly became a beloved addition to everything from wings to salads. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, easy to whip up in under an hour, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
If you love our classic Mac and Cheese recipe, you’re in for a treat. This version elevates the familiar comfort food with a fiery kick that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So grab those cooking utensils and let’s dive into this cheesy masterpiece!
What is Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Let’s have a little fun with the name of this dish. “Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese” rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? It sounds like a food lover’s dream! One might wonder, is there a buffalo involved? Thankfully, no actual buffalo were harmed in the making of this delightful dish! The term “Buffalo” refers to the tangy sauce you’ll vigorously mix with your shredded chicken. A classic saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish is a surefire way to win over anyone’s heart (or stomach)!
It’s an exciting play on flavors and textures that packs a punch. Who could resist creamy cheese blended with spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken? So why not roll up your sleeves and give this lip-smacking recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese stands out for several reasons that every home chef and taste enthusiast will appreciate. Let’s break it down:
- Deliciously Creamy: The creaminess of this dish is where it shines. With a rich, creamy cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta, you’ll find comfort in every spoonful. The blend of cheeses works in tandem to create that coveted creamy texture, making each bite nothing short of dreamy.
- Cost-Effective Comfort Food: Why spend a fortune on takeout when you can whip up this mouthwatering meal at home? Using affordable ingredients like pasta, chicken, and cheese, you can easily feed a family (or yourself for days) without breaking the bank. Plus, you control the flavor!
- Crispy Topping: We’re not stopping at creamy; this dish gets a delightful crispy topping that adds texture and an extra layer of flavor. Combining breadcrumbs with butter takes this already fantastic dish up a notch, creating a contrast that keeps you coming back.
If you enjoy other mac and cheese variations, like our Classic Four-Cheese Mac and Cheese, you’re definitely going to want to add this recipe to your roster. Who wouldn’t want to try out an update that includes flavorful Buffalo chicken?
So roll up your sleeves and head into the kitchen—this is the comfort food you’ve been waiting for!
How to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Quick Overview
Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is easy, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. This dish takes about 30 minutes of hands-on preparation time and about 25 minutes of baking—perfect for a weekday family dinner! Get ready to enjoy layers of creamy, cheesy goodness well-seasoned with zesty Buffalo chicken.
Key Ingredients for Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your dish cooks evenly and perfectly.
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook your elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring until a paste forms. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheese & Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Buffalo sauce. Once combined, add your shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing well until everything is coated evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer your cheesy pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture to create a golden topping.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
What to Serve Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese With
Pairing this dish with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, which will balance the richness of the mac and cheese with some crisp, crunchy veggies. You might also offer some garlic bread for those who want to dip into that creamy sauce.
And don’t forget about drinks! A light beer or sparkling lemonade complements the spiciness beautifully. You’re snugly set for an amazing meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
To make your Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese the best it can be, here are some helpful tips:
- Use a rooster sauce: If you’re looking to spice things up more, try using a hotter Buffalo sauce or even a spicy sriracha—I promise you won’t regret it!
- Cheese is Key: For the best creamy texture, don’t skimp on quality cheese. You want to use good cheese, preferably freshly shredded, to avoid the anti-caking agents found in pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix your breadcrumb topping with some grated parmesan or even crumbled blue cheese for added flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I’m sure that will be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until heated through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish.
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze portioned leftovers. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the same reheating instructions.
Now that you’re equipped with this incredible recipe, it’s time to dive in and indulge! You don’t want to miss out on this rich, flavorful Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese—give it a try today!
Baked Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package directions until al dente.
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter Melted for sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Used to thicken the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups milk Preferably whole milk.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese For a rich flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For added creaminess.
- 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken Buffalo chicken works best.
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce Adjust to taste for spice level.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances flavor.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
For the Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For a crispy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter To mix with breadcrumbs.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, boil water and cook your elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring until a paste forms.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Buffalo sauce. Add your shredded chicken and cooked pasta, mixing well.
- Transfer your cheesy pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Topping and Baking
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serving
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.
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