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Buffalo Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Spicy Comfort in One Pot

Buffalo Mac and Cheese is a creamy, spicy dish that elevates traditional comfort food with a zesty kick.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Lumaca Rigata or any short pasta
For the Cheesy Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Substitute with margarine for dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works as a substitute
  • 3 cups Milk Dairy or non-dairy based on preference
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce Adjust for desired heat
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Can swap for your favorite melting cheese
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Vegan cheese can be used for plant-based option
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt works well as an alternative
For the Spices
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust based on personal preference
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked is best
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Use fresh for an extra boost
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Use fresh for an extra boost
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Chives Can use green onions or parsley
  • 1 cup Crispy Onions Use store-bought or homemade

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Spatula
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Mac and Cheese
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes a light golden color.
  3. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk into the roux, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble gently.
  4. Once the milk mixture has thickened, stir in 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce, adjusting for heat preference. Allow to simmer for an additional minute while stirring.
  5. Turn off the heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Stir until melted and well incorporated.
  6. Gently fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with an additional cup of shredded cheese and broil at 400°F for 5-10 minutes until golden.
  8. Once broiled, let it rest for a couple of minutes. Top with chopped chives and crispy onions and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 21gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Reheat covered in the oven to maintain creaminess.

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