Whether for a party, everyday dinner, or potluck supper, Buffalo mac and cheese is always a hit. Regarding American comfort food, mac and cheese reigns supreme, and for good reason. The creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a nostalgic classic that never fails to satisfy. But what if you could take that comfort food staple and give it a bold, flavorful makeover? Enter Buffalo chicken mac and cheese, a spicy, creamy, and indulgent dish that blends the best of two beloved classics: Buffalo chicken wings and macaroni and cheese.
This recipe takes traditional mac and cheese to the next level by infusing the cheese sauce with the tangy heat of wing sauce, creating a perfect balance of creamy and spicy. To make things even easier—and more delicious—you can use rotisserie chicken, saving time without sacrificing flavor. Tender, shredded chicken is folded into the rich sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with satisfying, savory goodness.
For this Buffalo mac and cheese, we elevate a buttery panko topping with blue cheese crumbles. It adds the perfect crunch and a signature tangy kick to each forkful. The contrast of textures—smooth and creamy mac with a crunchy, golden topping—makes this dish irresistible. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course and impressive enough to bring to your next gathering or game day spread.
Whether you’re a hard-core fan of Buffalo wings or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. It’s the ultimate mash-up of flavors and textures, guaranteed to satisfy cravings and win over even the pickiest eaters.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Drizzle the baked Buffalo mac and cheese with a few tablespoons of wing sauce for an extra kick of flavor and heat.
- Add cooked crumbled bacon to the dish in the sauce mixture or as a garnish.
- Add a drizzle of blue cheese dressing or serve it on the side.
- Add a green salad with Italian dressing or your favorite vinaigrette.
- Serve the casserole with toasted garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
- For a beverage, choose beer or iced tea.
Recipe Variations
Pulled Pork: Swap the shredded chicken for pulled pork for a smoky BBQ twist.
Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower florets or a meat-free protein.
Shrimp: Add some sautéed shrimp for a seafood inspired version.
PrintBuffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Buffalo mac and cheese is a great way to gussy up your favorite comfort food and make it a hearty meal!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casseroles, Pasta
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
For the Chicken
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup wing sauce (divided)
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (a rotisserie chicken is ideal)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup wing sauce
- 2 cups (8 ounces) mild cheddar cheese (or cheddar jack)
- 1 cup (4 ounces) pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Kosher salt to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup panko crumbs
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- 3 tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded Parmesan
Instructions
- Following the package directions, cook the macaroni in boiling salted water to al dente. Drain and set aside.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Meanwhile, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the chicken and 1/3 cup of wing sauce. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk and 1/4 cup of wing sauce and cook while stirring until thickened. Add cheese and season with the pepper; add salt to taste. Stir until well blended and the cheese is melted.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Stir the drained macaroni and chicken mixture into the cheese sauce and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Combine the panko crumbs, chopped parsley, and 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Sprinkle blue cheese or Parmesan over the crumbs.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Bake the casserole for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Credit: Diana Rattray
