Buffalo Mac And Cheese

Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy comfort food with a spicy kick. This dish combines smooth macaroni and cheese with bold buffalo sauce and tender…

By Willow • February 4, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy comfort food with a spicy kick. This dish combines smooth macaroni and cheese with bold buffalo sauce and tender shredded chicken, creating a tasty experience that’s both familiar and exciting. The gooey melted cheese and a hint of heat make every bite satisfying and fun to eat.

I love making Buffalo Mac and Cheese when I want something cozy but with a little extra flavor. Adding buffalo sauce is my secret way to wake up the classic mac and cheese, and the shredded chicken gives it a heartier feel. It’s also great for sharing because the flavors are bold enough to please everyone at the table.

My favorite way to enjoy this dish is with a side of crunchy celery sticks or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Sometimes I like to toss on a bit of blue cheese crumbles on top to add even more tang. It’s a simple meal that feels like a treat and never fails to bring smiles during dinner!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Elbow Macaroni: This pasta shape holds sauce well and gives you those perfect bites. If you can’t find elbow macaroni, try shells, cavatappi, or penne for a similar effect.

Cheddar & Mozzarella: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor, while mozzarella adds creamy meltiness. For a twist, mix in Monterey Jack or Colby. Use vegan cheese options for a dairy-free version.

Buffalo Wing Sauce: The heart of this dish’s heat and tang. Store-bought wing sauce works great, but you can mix hot sauce with melted butter if you want homemade control over spice.

Bacon & Breadcrumb Topping: Adds crunch and smoky flavor. For a vegetarian option, use roasted nuts or extra toasted breadcrumbs instead to keep the texture.

How Do You Make a Smooth, Lumpy-Free Cheese Sauce?

Getting a silky cheese sauce can be tricky. Here’s how to do it easily:

• Start by making a roux: melt butter, then whisk in flour and cook until it’s a light golden color. This removes the raw flour taste.
• Add milk slowly while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Patience here is key!
• Cook on medium heat until the sauce thickens; don’t rush this step.
• Remove sauce from heat before adding cheese—too much heat can make cheese seize and get grainy.
• Stir in cheese gradually until melted and smooth.

These steps help ensure your cheese sauce coats the pasta perfectly without clumps or graininess.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot – perfect for boiling the macaroni evenly without sticking.
• Whisk – great for mixing the roux and milk to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free.
• Large saucepan – ideal for making the cheese sauce and combining ingredients.
• Baking dish (about 8×8 inches) – to bake the mac and cheese for a bubbly, golden crust.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – helpful for stirring without scratching your pots or pans.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get those sauce ratios just right every time.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add shredded rotisserie chicken instead of bacon for extra protein and heartiness.
• Mix in blue cheese crumbles for more tang and that classic Buffalo flavor contrast.
• Stir in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower to add veggies and texture.
• Swap buffalo sauce for a milder BBQ sauce if you prefer less heat but still want bold flavor.

Buffalo Mac And Cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings:

• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
• Optional: blue cheese crumbles for topping

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 15 minutes to cook the macaroni and cheese sauce on the stove, plus 20-25 minutes baking time. All in all, you’ll have a delicious Buffalo Mac and Cheese ready in around 45 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Oven and Pasta:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just tender (al dente). Drain well and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a light golden roux forms. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often until sauce thickens.

3. Add Cheese and Buffalo Flavor:

Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella until smooth and melted. Mix in buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring carefully to coat every noodle.

5. Prepare for Baking:

Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with some melted butter or oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top along with the crumbled bacon.

6. Bake and Garnish:

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and optional blue cheese crumbles for a tangy finish.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Dish out warm, creamy, and spicy Buffalo Mac and Cheese, perfect for any casual dinner or game day treat.

Can I Use Frozen Macaroni for This Recipe?

It’s best to use dried pasta and cook it fresh according to the package instructions. If you have frozen cooked macaroni, thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing with the cheese sauce to avoid a watery dish.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and use vegetarian-friendly buffalo sauce. You can add extra veggies like roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Can I Prepare Buffalo Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make the cheese sauce and cook the pasta a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and bake just before serving to keep the dish fresh and creamy.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.