Looking for a dish that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese? This buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe is your answer! Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, it’s packed with flavor and sure to please. Get ready to indulge in this cheesy, spicy delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 500 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine cream cheese, milk, and ranch dressing over medium heat.
- Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add in the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the shredded chicken and cooked macaroni.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving; enjoy your dish!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
Serving and Pairings
Buffalo chicken mac and cheese pairs well with a fresh garden salad, celery sticks, and blue cheese dressing on the side for a classic touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it’s key for flavor.
- Mix the cheese well to avoid clumps.
- Allow the dish to cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
Helpful Tips
- For extra heat, add more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Top with chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer taste.
- Let the dish rest after baking for better serving.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare buffalo chicken mac and cheese a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?
You can use a spicy barbecue sauce or hot sauce blended with a bit of butter for a similar flavor profile.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of buffalo sauce you use.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free elbow macaroni for a gluten-free version.
How long does it take to bake?
The baking time is approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures that satisfies cravings for comfort food with a kick. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a touch of buffalo heat!
Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine cream cheese, milk, and ranch dressing over medium heat.
- Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add in the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the shredded chicken and cooked macaroni.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving; enjoy your dish!
