Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful dish combining the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with a spicy buffalo chicken twist. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or when you’re craving comfort food, this recipe delivers a unique flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s easy to prepare and guarantees satisfaction with every cheesy bite!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing adds a rich and tangy flavor that takes traditional mac and cheese to the next level.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s game day or a cozy dinner, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one pot, making cleanup quick and easy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Whisk
Baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for cooking your cavatappi noodles and combining all ingredients seamlessly.
Whisk: Perfect for blending the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.
Baking dish: Ensures even baking, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully while adding that crispy top layer.

Ingredients

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a cheesy, addicting dish with a buffalo chicken kick!

For the Chicken Mixture

1 cup (140 g) shredded cooked rotisserie chicken
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons ranch dressing

For the Pasta Base

8 ounces cavatappi noodles, (cooked al dente and drained)

For the Cheese Sauce

¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (490 ml) whole milk, (warmed)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground mustard powder
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, (optional)

For Topping

½ cup (56.5 g) sharp cheddar cheese, (freshly grated)
¼ cup (28 g) mozzarella cheese, (freshly grated)
¼ cup (28 g) mozzarella cheese
¼ cup (28 g) cheddar cheese
salt and pepper, (to taste)
1 tablespoon buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon ranch dressing
parsley, (chopped (for garnish))

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures your macaroni and cheese cooks evenly in the baking process.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatappi noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth.
Gradually add warmed whole milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps.
Stir in kosher salt, ground mustard powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Keep stirring until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat; stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
Mix in cooked rotisserie chicken along with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing.
Fold in drained noodles gently until everything is combined evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
Drizzle extra buffalo sauce over top if desired.
Bake for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving! Enjoy this delicious Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese hot from the oven!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it creatively can enhance the dining experience, making it perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.

Garnish Ideas

Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a crisp texture and vibrant color.
Extra Buffalo Sauce: A drizzle of buffalo sauce on top offers an extra kick.
Ranch Dressing Drizzle: A light pour of ranch dressing gives a creamy finish.

Pairing Suggestions

Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the cheesy flavors perfectly.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or carrots provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
Caesar Salad: A tangy salad balances the dish’s heaviness with freshness.

Presentation Tips

In Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for a fun and personal touch.
Baking Dish Family Style: Present it in a large baking dish for sharing, topped with parsley for color.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

To achieve the best Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese, consider these essential tips that elevate your dish to perfection.

Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cheese for superior melting and flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the amount of buffalo sauce based on your heat preference.
Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
Bake Until Golden: A crispy top layer adds texture; bake until golden brown.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set it, making serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the mac and cheese.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a comforting addition that complements the spiciness well.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that works wonderfully with this dish.
Pickle Chips: Tangy pickles offer a refreshing crunch that cuts through the creaminess.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings a sweet contrast, perfect for balancing savory dishes.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add extra crunch alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of.

Incorrect cheese choices: Using pre-shredded cheese can lead to a less creamy texture. Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Overcooking noodles: Cooking your cavatappi too long can result in mushy pasta. Make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up well in the dish.
Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can dull the flavor. Be generous with seasonings like garlic powder and cayenne pepper for that extra kick.
Rushing the sauce: Pouring in cold milk too quickly can cause clumps. Gradually whisk in warm milk to achieve a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
Not letting it rest: Cutting into your dish immediately after baking can make it runny. Allow the macaroni and cheese to sit for a few minutes before serving for better consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain flavor.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals at medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat while stirring frequently; add a splash of milk if needed to regain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can use grilled chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce or omit the buffalo sauce and cayenne pepper to make it milder while still enjoying the creamy goodness.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to baking, store it in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready to serve.

What’s a good side dish for this recipe?

Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal alongside your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is an irresistible comfort food that combines cheesy goodness with a spicy twist. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients like blue cheese or green onions! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cara
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is an irresistible twist on a beloved classic. This creamy, cheesy dish combines the comforting flavors of traditional macaroni and cheese with a spicy buffalo chicken kick. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or simply satisfying cravings, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. With just one pot needed for preparation, it’s a convenient choice that results in a rich and flavorful meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup shredded cooked rotisserie chicken
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
8 ounces cavatappi noodles
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground mustard powder
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
½ cup sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup mozzarella cheese
¼ cup mozzarella cheese
¼ cup cheddar cheese
salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon ranch dressing
parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook cavatappi noodles until al dente; drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add warmed milk, stirring to avoid lumps.
Stir in salt, ground mustard powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until thickened.
Remove from heat and add sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Mix in chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and drained noodles.
Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce if desired.
Bake for about 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American