This creamy Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a cheesy delight with a spicy kick! It combines macaroni with rich cheese and zesty Buffalo sauce for a fun twist.
Not gonna lie, this dish has made cheese lovers out of many of my friends. I always serve it with a side of celery sticks to keep things fresh—because, you know, balance! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta hugs the cheese sauce perfectly! If you’re looking for a change, any short pasta like shells or penne works just as well. Gluten-free pasta is a fantastic alternative if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that bold flavor. I love mixing it with a bit of medium cheddar for a nice balance, but feel free to swap in pepper jack for extra spice!
Mozzarella Cheese: This adds creaminess and stretchiness. If you can’t find it, provolone or even a melty vegan cheese would work nicely.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a salty touch and depth of flavor. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes if Parmesan isn’t available.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a milder version, you could use BBQ sauce or even a mix of ranch dressing and hot sauce.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth cheese sauce is your roux! Start by cooking the butter and flour together until you see a light golden color, then slowly add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Here’s a quick guide:
- Heat the butter until it’s fully melted, then add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk, still whisking. This helps prevent clumps.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats a spoon.
Remember to be patient! Rushing these steps can lead to a grainy sauce. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
Cheese:
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids:
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Thickener:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Flavorings:
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Celery sticks or carrot sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can expect to spend around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce Base:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. After it’s melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This forms a roux. The mixture should look lightly golden and smooth.
3. Whisk in the Milk:
Slowly pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This is your creamy base!
4. Add the Cheeses:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is nice and smooth.
5. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well, then taste the sauce. Add salt and pepper as desired to bring out all those flavors!
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the drained macaroni to your cheese sauce. Stir it all together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy deliciousness.
7. Optional Baking Step:
If you want that bubbly finish, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil it for 2-3 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color if you like. Serve warm with celery or carrot sticks on the side to balance out the spice.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Buffalo Mac and Cheese! It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as it can vary compared to regular pasta. Follow the package instructions for best results!
How Can I Reduce the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce. You can also mix in some ranch dressing or use a milder hot sauce instead to keep that Buffalo flavor without the heat.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can make the mac and cheese ahead of time! Prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven to heat through, and broil for a few minutes to get that cheesy topping nice and bubbly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
