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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole

This Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of bold flavor. Tender chicken and soft pasta are coated in a rich, spicy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. It is warm, cozy, and perfect for an easy family dinner everyone will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese for topping
  • green onions chopped, optional garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
  2. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth and lightly golden.
  4. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Add the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Turn off the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly and the top is golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre shredded varieties. Adjust the buffalo sauce to control the spice level. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.