This Creamy Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on the classic dish! With rich cheese, spicy buffalo sauce, and tender pasta, it’s sure to make you smile.
Who doesn’t love the mix of creamy and spicy? I love making this when I’m in the mood for comfort food with a kick. Pair it with a side salad for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice, but you can swap for any short pasta like shells or cavatappi if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up in the cheese sauce.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This is key for flavor! If you want less heat, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or a hot sauce mixed with a little melted butter. There are even vegan options available!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
Chicken: Adding this is totally optional. If you want a meat-free version, just leave it out, or throw in some cooked veggies like broccoli for a veggie-packed alternative.
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
Making sure your cheese sauce comes together perfectly is crucial for great mac and cheese. This technique is about patience and attention to detail. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the roux (flour and butter) for only a minute or two to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the warmed milk and cream. Mixing slowly helps avoid lumps—whisk continuously!
- Once the mixture thickens, keep the heat low before adding cheese. This avoids burning and keeps the cheese smooth.
- Add cheese gradually. Stir until melted before adding more—a little goes a long way!
By following these tips, your cheese sauce will be velvety and delightful!
How to Make Creamy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
For the Flavor:
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (optional)
- Chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy buffalo mac and cheese will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but special enough for a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring to form a smooth roux—this helps thicken your cheese sauce!
3. Create the Creamy Base:
Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream. Stir continuously, making sure that there are no lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens up—this should take about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cream Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the softened cream cheese. Stir until it’s completely melted and smooth. This adds a rich creaminess to your sauce.
5. Cheese It Up:
Now it’s time to add your shredded cheeses! Gradually stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella, mixing until everything is melted and creamy.
6. Spice It Up:
Stir in the buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as you like. The buffalo sauce gives it the delicious, spicy kick!
7. Optional Chicken:
If you’d like to add some protein, fold in the cooked chicken now. This is a great way to make the dish even heartier!
8. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta. Make sure every piece is covered in that creamy goodness!
9. Serve It Up:
Transfer your delicious mac and cheese to a serving dish. If you want, sprinkle some chopped green onions and blue cheese crumbles on top for added flavor and garnish.
10. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, spicy buffalo mac and cheese! It’s comfort food at its finest.
Bonus Tip: If you prefer your mac and cheese baked, after step 8, transfer everything to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until it’s bubbling and golden on top!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions since gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
No Cream Cheese? What’s a Good Substitute?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar tangy creaminess. Just mix it in once the sauce has thickened to maintain that luscious texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
To kick up the heat, add more buffalo wing sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate spicy cheeses like Pepper Jack for an extra punch!
Can I Freeze Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze leftover mac and cheese! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of milk to restore creaminess.