Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is a recipe that brings together two of my absolute favorite comfort foods. When I first made this dish, I was just experimenting with some leftovers and a craving for something cheesy and spicy. Little did I know, I was about to stumble upon an absolute game-changer that now graces my dinner table time and again!
There’s something about the combination of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and that fiery buffalo sauce that just warms my heart. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent huddled together with friends, roaring games on the TV, and laughter that fills the room. This dish is perfect for game day, gatherings, or just when you’re feeling a little rebellious with your dinner choices. It’s indulgent, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!
What’s in Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Let’s break down what makes this dish so extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese! You can use shells or even penne if you’re feeling adventurous. Aim for about two cups, which is usually 8 ounces.
Cooked Chicken: I love to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It saves time and adds that delicious flavor. Shredded is the way to go!
Buffalo Sauce: This is the heart of the dish! I’m a fan of Frank’s RedHot Sauce – it has the perfect amount of kick without being overwhelmingly spicy.
Cheddar Cheese: You can’t have mac and cheese without cheese! I recommend using sharp cheddar for that rich flavor. Go ahead and shred it yourself if you have the time; it melts better!
Milk: Whole milk or 2% adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re trying to lighten things up a bit, you can go with skim milk, but it might change the richness.
Butter: Because everything is better with butter! It adds richness to the sauce and helps it all come together.
Flour: This helps thicken your cheese sauce and gives it that perfect gooey consistency.
Blue Cheese Crumbles: I love adding these for some extra flavor, but feel free to skip them if blue cheese isn’t your jam.
Is Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Good for You?
When it comes to comfort food, we often have to keep an eye on the health factor. This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is definitely a treat, so let’s consider its health aspects:
Chicken: A great source of protein, it helps keep you full and satisfied. Using lean cuts, like breast meat, can make it a bit healthier.
Whole Grains: If you opt for whole grain pasta, you’ll get some extra fiber, which is always a win!
Cheese: While it’s delicious, cheese is high in calories and saturated fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Using a blend of cheeses can also help reduce fat content while still getting that gooey texture.
Buffalo Sauce: Believe it or not, buffalo sauce has fewer calories than most other sauces, but do be mindful of the amount you’re using to tone down that spiciness, if needed!
In the end, this dish is more of an occasional indulgence than a daily staple, but it’s definitely worth every cheesy, spicy, bite!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe serves about 4 hungry souls, so get ready to dig in!
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons flour
– Optional: ½ cup blue cheese crumbles
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Alrighty, let’s dive into the magic of making this dish!
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside when done.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce**: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute until it forms a paste.
3. **Add Milk**: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens – about 3-5 minutes.
4. **Cheese, Please**: Lower the heat and add the cheddar cheese a handful at a time, mixing it until it’s fully melted. Then, stir in the buffalo sauce and cooked chicken.
5. **Combine**: Finally, toss the macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is coated in that cheesy goodness.
6. **Bake (Optional)**: If you want to take it to the next level, transfer the mix into a baking dish, top it with extra cheese and blue cheese crumbles, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Cheesy Tips & Variations to Try
Here are some fun twists and additional ideas to make this dish your own:
– **Veggie Boost**: Add some sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
– **Pasta Variety**: Try using a different shape of pasta, like cavatappi or fusilli, just for fun!
– **Spicy Kick**: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or use a hotter buffalo sauce.
– **Make it Neater**: For those who prefer a bit of class, you can serve it baked in individual ramekins.
I think you’re really going to love making this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese! It’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor and will surely impress anyone lucky enough to be around for dinner. Plus, I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Share your experience and any twists you decided to try. Happy cooking!