If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with a bit of spice, look no further than buffalo chicken mac and cheese. This recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese by incorporating shredded buffalo chicken and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving comfort food, this dish is sure to impress. Get ready to indulge!
Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 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 (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 600
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously for about 2 minutes.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
5. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and buffalo sauce.
7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Additionally, swap the cheddar cheese for a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Buffalo chicken mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even celery sticks with blue cheese dressing for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent mushiness.
– Don’t skip the whisking step when adding milk to avoid lumps.
– Make sure the cheese is completely melted before mixing to ensure a smooth sauce.
– Be careful with the amount of buffalo sauce; adjust to your spice preference.
– Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting qualities.
Helpful Tips
– Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
– For a crunchier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top before baking.
– Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.
– Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce you use.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated later. You can also repurpose them into a filling for stuffed peppers or a topping for baked potatoes.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, gouda, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it properly after thawing.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and a spicy kick, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of this delicious dish!
Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and buffalo sauce.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly.