This Buffalo mac and cheese is a creamy, slightly smoky mac that tastes like the perfect cross between Buffalo chicken dip and restaurant-style mac and cheese. Swipe to make it!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
The chicken has a Buffalo-style spice blend, the mac and cheese is ultra creamy thanks to a melty blend of cheeses, and the hot sauce brings the signature Buffalo tang.
BUFFALO MAC AND CHEESE INGREDIENTS
– Cavatappi pasta
– Cheddar cheese
– Mozzarella cheese
– Smoked gouda
– Colby jack
– Butter
– All-purpose flour
– Hot sauce
– Dijon mustard
– Whole milk
– Heavy cream
Combine the chicken cubes with seasonings. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
STEP 1: COOK THE CHICKEN
STEP 2: MIX THE SEASONING BLEND
Stir together all spices for the Buffalo seasoning mix. Once combined, set the spices aside for later.
STEP 3: COOK THE PASTA
Boil the cavatappi in a large pot filled with salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
STEP 4: PREP THE CHEESE
Grate all cheeses and combine them in a bowl. Set the bowl of cheese aside for later.
STEP 5: BUILD THE ROUX
In a large nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium heat, then sprinkle in half of the seasoning mix. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes to form a roux.
STEP 6: ADD MILK & CREAM
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and whisk until smooth and thickened.
STEP 7: ADD HEAT & FLAVOR
Stir in the remaining seasoning mix, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, and the cooked chicken. Whisk until well combined.
STEP 8: MELT THE CHEESE
Add about two-thirds of the cheese mixture into the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is thick, glossy, and creamy.
STEP 9: ADD THE PASTA
Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
STEP 10: BAKE
Transfer the Buffalo mac mixture to a casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
PRO TIPS
- Use freshly grated cheese for the perfect melty flavor
- Use rotisserie chicken for easy assembly
- Add cream cheese for an even creamier texture
Want the full measurements, step-by-step instructions, and more tips? Click "learn more" or swipe up for the recipe.