Buffalo Mac and Cheese Recipe: Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese? Probably not—unless you kick it up a notch with the bold, spicy flavors of Buffalo sauce. That’s where Buffalo Mac and Cheese comes in, combining two comfort food powerhouses into one irresistible dish. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your craving for both spice and creaminess in every single bite. Whether you’re cooking for game day, a family dinner, or just want something indulgent for yourself, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Think about it—mac and cheese is already a classic. But when you blend in the heat of hot sauce and the tangy zing of Buffalo-style seasoning, you’re not just eating; you’re experiencing a flavor explosion. And the best part? It’s super easy to make. Whether you’re a total beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, you’ll find this step-by-step guide simple to follow and guaranteed to impress.
So, get ready to bring the heat and the cheese. Let’s dive into everything you need to make the ultimate Buffalo Mac and Cheese.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to get started. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen, which makes this recipe even easier.
Essential Ingredients:
- Pasta – Elbow macaroni or small shells (1 lb)
- Butter – Unsalted (4 tablespoons)
- All-purpose flour – For the roux (3 tablespoons)
- Milk – Whole milk or 2% for creaminess (3 cups)
- Heavy cream – Optional, but adds richness (1 cup)
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp or medium, shredded (2 cups)
- Mozzarella cheese – For melty goodness (1 cup)
- Cream cheese – Softened (4 oz)
- Buffalo hot sauce – Frank’s RedHot or similar (½ to ¾ cup)
- Salt and pepper – To taste
Optional Ingredients:
- Shredded rotisserie chicken – If you want to make it a full meal
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Onion powder – 1 tsp
- Paprika – For a smoky hint
- Blue cheese crumbles – If you’re a fan
- Green onions or parsley – For garnish
- Breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping
- Ranch dressing – For drizzling on top (optional)
These ingredients strike a perfect balance between creamy, spicy, and savory. You can customize them to fit your taste, but this list will give you that classic Buffalo Mac and Cheese flavor profile.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
Before we start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
Essentials:
- Large pot – For boiling pasta
- Saucepan – For making the cheese sauce
- Whisk – To blend the roux and sauce smoothly
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing
- Casserole dish – If baking your mac and cheese
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional but Helpful:
- Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better
- Baking sheet – To catch any drips in the oven
- Mixing bowls – For tossing chicken or mixing toppings
- Oven-safe skillet – For one-pan stovetop to oven cooking
Now that you’re all set with the tools and ingredients, it’s time to get cooking!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
This is where the magic happens. Follow these steps closely and you’ll end up with Buffalo Mac and Cheese so good, it’ll knock your socks off.
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. You want to cook it just until al dente, which means the pasta is cooked through but still firm when bitten. Why? Because it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce or baked, and overcooked pasta = mushy mac and cheese. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes. This roux will help thicken your cheese sauce and give it that creamy base. Make sure there are no lumps—this is the foundation of your sauce!
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly—this should take about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it becoming smooth and velvety. Don’t rush this part!
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Reduce heat to low, and start adding your shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir constantly until everything melts into a smooth, cheesy dream. Don’t let it boil—gentle heat is key to avoid curdling.
Step 5: Stir in Buffalo Sauce
Now it’s time to bring the heat. Add in the Buffalo sauce, starting with ½ cup. Taste and adjust based on how spicy you want it. Stir until fully blended and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat every noodle. At this point, you can serve it as-is for a quick stovetop version, or bake it for a golden, crispy topping.
Step 7: Optional Baking Step
If baking, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased casserole dish. Top with extra cheese, breadcrumbs, or blue cheese crumbles. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Buffalo Chicken Add-on (Optional but Recommended)
If you’re a fan of Buffalo wings, adding chicken to your Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a game-changer. It turns this dish from a side or comfort snack into a full-blown hearty meal. Here’s how to do it the right way.
Step 1: Choose Your Chicken
You have a few options here:
- Rotisserie chicken – The easiest and fastest choice. Just shred it up.
- Grilled chicken breasts – Season lightly with salt and pepper, grill until cooked, then slice or shred.
- Leftover chicken – If you’ve got cooked chicken in the fridge, this is the perfect place to use it.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken in Buffalo Sauce
Once your chicken is shredded or chopped, toss it in some Buffalo sauce. Use about ¼ to ½ cup depending on how much heat you want. The sauce should lightly coat the chicken without making it soggy.
Step 3: Mix Into the Mac and Cheese
Fold the saucy chicken into your creamy mac just before baking or serving. If you’re baking it, the chicken will soak up even more flavor in the oven.
This simple step adds a protein punch and extra Buffalo kick that makes the dish feel more complete and satisfying.
Topping Ideas and Final Touches
What makes a good mac and cheese even better? The toppings! Whether you’re going baked or stovetop, the final layer adds texture and flavor.
Breadcrumb Topping
Mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle evenly over your mac before baking. For extra flavor, add a bit of garlic powder or grated parmesan.
Blue Cheese Crumbles
Love the tang of blue cheese? Sprinkle some crumbles on top right before serving. It adds a sharp contrast to the creamy and spicy sauce.
Fresh Herbs
Chopped parsley or green onions make a great garnish. Not only do they add color, but they bring a fresh finish to a rich dish.
Drizzle of Ranch or Extra Buffalo Sauce
Right before serving, give your mac a zig-zag drizzle of ranch dressing or an extra hit of Buffalo sauce. It adds visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is bold and filling, so you don’t need a lot of extras, but here are a few ideas to complete the meal.
Side Dishes
- Crisp green salad – A cool, crunchy salad balances out the spice.
- Celery and carrot sticks – Just like with wings, these are perfect Buffalo companions.
- Cornbread or garlic bread – For dipping in the leftover cheesy sauce.
Drink Pairings
- Milk or iced tea – Helps cool down the heat.
- Lemonade – A sweet, tart contrast to the spicy cheese.
- Soda or sparkling water – Something fizzy to cut through the richness.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the star of the show, so keep the sides simple and complementary.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Yes, you can freeze it! Just cool completely, portion it, and store in airtight freezer containers or bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Add a splash of milk or cream to your serving before reheating to keep it creamy. Heat in 30-second intervals and stir between each.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan with a little milk over low heat, stirring until warmed through.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until hot.
Avoid overheating, or the sauce can separate and lose its creamy texture.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese Variations
Want to switch things up a bit? Try one of these twists to make it your own.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken and use plant-based alternatives or just load up on cheese and pasta. Add roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.
Spicy Jalapeño Kick
Slice up fresh or pickled jalapeños and stir them into the sauce before combining with pasta. You can also add red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold.
Ranch-Infused Flavor
Love ranch with your Buffalo wings? Stir in a few tablespoons of ranch dressing into the cheese sauce, or drizzle it over the top before serving for a zesty, creamy finish.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese is super customizable, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Tips to Make It Extra Creamy and Flavorful
Here are a few pro tips to make sure your Buffalo Mac and Cheese is restaurant-quality every time.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For the best melt and texture, grate your cheese fresh from the block.
Keep the Heat Low When Adding Cheese
High heat can cause cheese to break and separate, leading to a greasy or grainy sauce. Always reduce the heat before stirring in your cheeses.
Perfect Pasta-to-Sauce Ratio
Don’t add all the pasta at once. Pour it in gradually, stirring until the consistency is just right. You want every noodle to be swimming in sauce, not drying it out.
These small tweaks make a big difference in taste and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s save you from some of the most common mac and cheese mishaps.
Overcooking the Pasta
It’s easy to go too far with pasta, especially since it cooks more when baked. Stick to al dente or even slightly undercooked.
Grainy Cheese Sauce
This usually happens when the cheese is added too quickly or at too high a temperature. Keep it slow and low!
Too Much Buffalo Sauce
Yes, you want heat—but balance is key. Overdoing the hot sauce can overwhelm the cheese and make the dish too spicy. Always taste as you go.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your dish turns out smooth, flavorful, and balanced.
Is Buffalo Mac and Cheese Kid-Friendly?
It can be! The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust the spice level to suit little taste buds.
How to Make It Kid-Friendly
- Use less Buffalo sauce, or swap it with a mild hot sauce or just a few dashes for flavor.
- Serve sauce on the side, so each person can mix in the amount they like.
- Add extra cheese, especially milder cheeses like mozzarella, to mellow out the heat.
Many kids love mac and cheese—this version just needs a little tweaking to keep it family-friendly.
Making Buffalo Mac and Cheese for a Crowd
Whether it’s for a party, potluck, or game day gathering, Buffalo Mac and Cheese is always a hit. And good news—it’s super easy to scale up for a crowd without sacrificing flavor or quality.
How to Scale the Recipe
Start by doubling or even tripling the ingredients, depending on how many people you’re serving. A single batch typically serves about 6–8 people as a main dish or 10–12 as a side. So, if you’re expecting a full house, go big!
- Pasta: 2 to 3 pounds of elbow macaroni or shells
- Cheese sauce: Double or triple all sauce ingredients
- Buffalo chicken: Use a full rotisserie chicken per batch, shredded and tossed in sauce
Make sure you use a large pot and an extra-big casserole dish or multiple pans if you plan to bake it.
Keeping It Warm for Events
- Slow cooker method: After preparing, transfer the Buffalo mac into a slow cooker on the Warm setting. Stir occasionally and keep the lid on to prevent it from drying out.
- Oven holding: Cover the dish with foil and keep it in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) until ready to serve.
This way, your mac and cheese stays creamy, hot, and ready to impress—without needing to be reheated.
Nutrition Breakdown (Estimated)
Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving, assuming this dish serves 8 people.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550–700 kcal |
| Protein | 20–25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40–50g |
| Fat | 30–40g |
| Fiber | 2–4g |
| Sugar | 5–7g |
| Sodium | 900–1200mg |
Keep in mind this varies depending on ingredients, serving size, and how much Buffalo sauce or cheese you use. Want to make it a little healthier?
Tips to Lighten It Up
- Use low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese
- Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber
- Use less butter or a mix of butter and olive oil
- Try plant-based milk and cheeses for a dairy-free version
That way, you get the comfort without all the guilt—though let’s be real, this is totally worth every bite.
FAQs about Buffalo Mac and Cheese Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, shells, penne, rotini, or even cavatappi all work great. Choose something with curves or ridges to trap that creamy sauce.
2. Is there a dairy-free version of Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
Yes! You can use plant-based cheese, almond or oat milk, and vegan butter. Just make sure your cheese alternatives melt well and have a creamy texture.
3. How can I tone down the heat?
Start with less Buffalo sauce or mix it with ranch or cream cheese to mellow the spice. You can also drizzle sauce on individual portions so everyone controls their own heat level.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the mac and cheese, let it cool, and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered with foil) until warmed through—about 20–25 minutes.
5. What’s the best cheese combo for Buffalo Mac and Cheese?
A mix of sharp cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for melt, and cream cheese for smoothness is perfect. Want extra tang? Add a handful of blue cheese or pepper jack for a little kick.
Conclusion
Buffalo Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food remix. It’s bold, creamy, spicy, and cheesy all at once—a dish that hits every craving. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or wow guests at your next party, this recipe delivers big time.
You’ve got the full guide now: the perfect cheese blend, the creamy sauce base, the fiery Buffalo kick, and even chicken if you want to make it hearty. Plus, you’ve learned how to store leftovers, serve it with style, and tweak it for kids or crowds.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, turn up the heat, and enjoy a big bowl of cheesy, spicy happiness.
