Tired of the same old dinners? Craving something that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss? Look no further than this Easy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe! It’s the glorious collision of two beloved classics: creamy, cheesy macaroni and the tangy, spicy kick of Buffalo chicken wings. Imagine tender pasta smothered in a luxuriously smooth, slightly smoky cheese sauce, swirled with shredded chicken coated in fiery Buffalo sauce, all topped with an irresistible buttery cornflake crunch. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen on your weeknight table or as the star of your next game day spread. Best part? It’s surprisingly straightforward to make. Let’s dive in!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe Works:
- Truly Easy & Approachable: No fancy techniques, just clear steps anyone can follow.
- Flavor Bomb: Perfect balance of creamy cheese, tangy heat, and savory depth.
- Crowd-Pleasing Power: Guaranteed to disappear fast at potlucks, parties, or family dinners.
- Texture Heaven: Creamy sauce, tender pasta and chicken, CRUNCHY topping. 🤯
- Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Weeknight & Weekend Worthy: Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for Tuesday.
Gathering Your Flavor Arsenal: Ingredients
Don’t be intimidated by the list – many are pantry staples! Here’s what you need for this epic fusion:
For the Buffalo Chicken:
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken, Shredded or Diced: Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate shortcut hero here! 🐔 (Save time and add flavor). You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken breast/thigh.
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice and highly recommended for authentic flavor.
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, Melted: Balances the vinegar tang in the hot sauce and adds richness.
- 1 tbsp Honey: The secret weapon! 🍯 It tames the heat slightly and adds a subtle, complex sweetness that makes the Buffalo flavor sing.
For the Mac & Cheese Base:
- 1 lb (450g) Elbow Macaroni (or similar small shape like Cavatappi, Shells): The perfect vehicle for holding onto all that cheesy, saucy goodness.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter: The foundation of our rich cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: Combines with butter to make the roux, which thickens the sauce.
- 2 1/2 cups Milk (Whole or 2% Recommended): For the creamiest results. Avoid skim milk.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth. Use low-sodium if preferred.
- 1 Knorr Chicken Bouillon Cube or 1 tsp Knorr Granulated Bouillon: 🏆 THE Flavor Booster! This is non-negotiable for that incredible umami depth. Dissolve it in the warm broth before adding.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness that complements the Buffalo sauce beautifully.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Convenient, robust garlic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp Chili Powder (Optional): For an extra layer of warmth and heat. Omit if sensitive.
- 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that classic, tangy mac and cheese flavor and excellent melt. Buy a block and shred it yourself for the smoothest melt (pre-shredded has anti-caking agents).
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Divided): Adds that glorious stretch and a milder flavor. Again, shredding yourself is best! We’ll use 1 cup in the sauce and reserve 1/2 cup for topping.
- 2 large Eggs, Lightly Beaten: 🥚 This is the pro tip for an extra rich, custardy, and cohesive baked mac and cheese that doesn’t get grainy. Don’t skip the tempering step!
For the Legendary Cornflake Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups Cornflakes, Lightly Crushed: The surprising star! Provides an incredible, satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy interior perfectly.
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, Melted: Coats the cornflakes, helping them brown and crisp up.
- 1/4 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkled under the cornflakes for extra cheesy pockets.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large pot for pasta
- Large pot or Dutch oven for cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Medium bowl (for Buffalo chicken)
- Small bowl (for tempering eggs & cornflake topping)
- 9×13 inch Baking Dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Step-by-Step Culinary Adventure: Making the Magic Happen
(Yield: 6-8 Servings | Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 60 mins)
1. Preheat & Pasta Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready when your casserole is assembled.
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions for al dente (slightly firm to the bite). It will continue cooking in the oven. Drain well in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse! The starch helps the sauce cling.
2. Whip Up the Buffalo Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo hot sauce, 2 tbsp melted butter, and honey.
- Stir well until the chicken is evenly and thoroughly coated. Set this flavor bomb aside. 💣
3. Craft the Luxurious Cheese Sauce (The Heart of the Matter):
- Make the Roux: In your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the 4 tbsp of butter. Once melted and bubbling slightly, whisk in the flour. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the thickening base. It should smell slightly nutty and look like a smooth paste.
- Gradually Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth (with the Knorr bouillon already dissolved in it), whisking constantly as you pour. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Thicken the Base: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking frequently. Continue simmering and whisking for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened noticeably. It should coat the back of a spoon, and when you run your finger through it, the line should hold (this is called “nappé”).
- Season Up: Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Let the spices bloom for about 30 seconds.
- Cheese, Glorious Cheese! Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Be patient – adding cheese off the heat prevents it from breaking or becoming grainy.
- The Egg Secret (Tempering is Key!): This step ensures your eggs blend smoothly without scrambling.
- Place the lightly beaten eggs in a small bowl.
- Very slowly, whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot cheese sauce into the beaten eggs. Drizzle it in gradually while whisking vigorously. This gently raises the temperature of the eggs.
- Now, whisk this warmed egg mixture back into the main pot of cheese sauce until everything is fully combined. This creates an incredibly rich and stable base.
4. The Grand Assembly:
- Pasta Meets Sauce: Add the drained, cooked macaroni to the pot of glorious cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until every noodle is beautifully coated.
- Buffalo Chicken Swirl: Gently fold in the prepared Buffalo chicken mixture. Don’t overmix – you want lovely swirls of spicy chicken throughout the cheesy pasta. 🌀
5. Layer & Top for Crunchy Perfection:
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into your greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cheesy Layer: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Cornflake Crunch: In a small bowl, combine the lightly crushed cornflakes and 2 tbsp melted butter. Toss until all the flakes are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery, crunchy goodness evenly over the layer of mozzarella cheese. Gently press down slightly to help it adhere.
6. Bake to Golden, Bubbly Bliss:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven (uncovered).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until you see these signs of perfection:
- The topping is golden brown and crispy.
- The sauce is bubbling enthusiastically around the edges.
- The center is piping hot.
7. The Crucial Rest (Patience!):
- Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve beautiful, cohesive scoops instead of a lava flow. It also lets the flavors meld even more.
Tips for the ABSOLUTE BEST Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Ever! 🏆
- Chicken Champion: Rotisserie chicken is truly the MVP for flavor and ease. If cooking your own, season it well (salt, pepper, garlic powder) before shredding.
- Cheese Matters: Shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded bags contain cellulose or potato starch to prevent clumping, which can make your sauce grainy or prevent it from melting as smoothly. A box grater is your friend. Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch.
- Al Dente is Essential: Overcooked pasta turns mushy during baking. Cook it just shy of done.
- Temper Like a Pro: Don’t rush the egg tempering. Adding hot sauce slowly to the eggs while whisking constantly is crucial to avoid scrambled egg bits in your sauce.
- Room Temp Ingredients: Using milk and cheese that aren’t ice-cold helps them incorporate smoothly and prevents the sauce from seizing.
- Don’t Boil the Sauce: Once you add the cheese, keep the heat low or off. Boiling can cause the cheese proteins to tighten and make the sauce greasy or grainy.
- Spice Control: Start with 1/3 cup Buffalo sauce if you’re heat-sensitive. You can always add more to the chicken mixture later. The honey helps balance, but you can adjust that too. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for extra kick.
- Cornflake Crunch: Don’t crush the cornflakes into dust! You want small pieces and some larger flakes for maximum texture contrast. Pressing them gently into the top layer of cheese before baking helps them adhere and get extra crispy.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the mac and cheese (without baking) up to a day ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping right before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold. The Buffalo chicken mixture can also be made 1-2 days ahead.
Delicious Variations to Explore:
- Blue Cheese Bliss: Crumble 1/2 cup of blue cheese into the cheese sauce along with the cheddar, or sprinkle it over the top before adding the cornflakes. Serve with extra blue cheese dressing for dipping/drizzling!
- Ranch Rendezvous: Substitute ranch dressing for half of the Buffalo sauce in the chicken mixture for a cooler twist.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in 1 cup of finely chopped celery or carrots with the Buffalo chicken, or add a cup of thawed frozen peas or broccoli florets to the mac and cheese before baking.
- Bacon Bonanza: Crumble 4-6 slices of cooked bacon and stir it in with the Buffalo chicken or sprinkle it over the top before the cornflakes.
- Different Toppings: Swap cornflakes for panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even French fried onions for a different crunch profile.
- Extra Cheesy: Add 1/2 cup of creamy cheese like Gouda, Fontina, or Cream Cheese (room temp, cubed small) to the sauce for ultimate decadence.
Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Plate
This dish is a hearty meal all on its own, but here’s how to make it a complete, restaurant-worthy experience:
- The Classic Combo: Serve generous scoops alongside crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks with a side of cooling blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing for dipping. This is non-negotiable for true Buffalo wing vibes! 🥬
- Green Balance: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Game Day Glory: Portion it into smaller cups for easy grabbing during the big game, alongside wings, nachos, and cold drinks.
- Comfort Food Feast: Pair it with a simple roasted vegetable (like broccoli or Brussels sprouts) or garlic bread for the ultimate cozy night in.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: ~650-750 kcal
- Total Fat: ~35-40g (Saturated Fat: ~18-22g)
- Cholesterol: ~150-180mg
- Sodium: ~900-1100mg (Highly dependent on bouillon, broth, and hot sauce brands – use low-sodium options if concerned)
- Total Carbohydrates: ~55-60g (Dietary Fiber: ~2g, Sugars: ~8-10g – mostly from pasta, milk, honey)
- Protein: ~30-35g
Remember: This is comfort food indulgence! Nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on specific ingredient brands, exact measurements, and serving size. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this without eggs? Yes, but the texture will be slightly less rich and custardy. The eggs help bind the sauce and prevent separation during baking. You could try substituting 1/4 cup cream cheese or sour cream blended into the sauce off-heat for extra creaminess.
- Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely! Small shapes like shells, cavatappi, penne, or rotini work great. Avoid very long strands.
- Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese? Yes, but the cornflake topping will lose its crunch. Assemble without the topping. Bake, cool completely, then freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat covered at 350°F until hot (30-45 mins), then add fresh cornflake topping and bake uncovered for 10 mins to crisp.
- My sauce seems thin! What happened? Ensure you cooked the roux (butter+flour) for a full minute and simmered the milk/broth mixture long enough to thicken before adding cheese. Using pre-shredded cheese can sometimes lead to a thinner sauce. Letting the baked dish rest helps it thicken further.
- How can I make it spicier? Use a hotter Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Xtra Hot), increase the Buffalo sauce to 3/4 cup, add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce, or include some diced jalapeños in the chicken mixture.
- Can I use gluten-free pasta and flour? Yes! Use a good quality GF pasta (cook al dente!) and a 1-to-1 GF all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Check bouillon and hot sauce labels for hidden gluten.
Ready to Conquer Comfort Food? Let’s Go! ✨
There you have it – the ultimate guide to creating a show-stopping, soul-satisfying Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s surprisingly simple to master. This recipe delivers that perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy comfort with the exciting, tangy heat of Buffalo wings, all crowned with an addictive crunchy topping. It’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite, a potluck legend, and your go-to for any occasion demanding serious flavor.
Don’t just dream about that cheesy, spicy, crunchy goodness… MAKE IT! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for the compliments to roll in. This is comfort food elevated, and it’s calling your name.
📣 Your Turn! 📣
- Make It! Try this recipe and taste the magic.
- Rate It! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Come back and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Did you love it? Any twists you added?
- Share It! Pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board, share it on Facebook, or send it to a friend who needs cheesy comfort in their life. Sharing is caring (especially when it involves mac and cheese!).
- Subscribe! Want more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter below! We’re constantly cooking up new ideas to make your meals amazing.
What are you waiting for? Get cooking and get your Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese fix today! 🧡🔥🧀
