Save A rich, creamy fusion of classic mac and cheese and bold buffalo chicken dip, this dish delivers spicy, cheesy comfort in every bite. Perfect for game day or a hearty family dinner.
I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the pot I use for cozy one-pot meals and small-batch recipes, so I wanted to quickly share it here.
This is the Martha Stewart heart-shaped enameled cast iron Dutch oven (2-quart). It’s one of those pieces I reach for constantly when testing soups, stews, baked casseroles, and smaller comfort-food recipes.
- Heats evenly with no hot spots (huge for slow cooking)
- Non-reactive enamel interior — no seasoning required
- Perfect size for small households or side dishes
- Sturdy handles, easy to move from oven to table
It’s also a favorite with home cooks — 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,900 reviews — and Amazon often has a coupon available, depending on color and size.
👉 Check current price, colors, and coupon on Amazon
(Affiliate link — if you choose to buy, it helps support this recipe blog at no extra cost to you ❤️)
I first made this Buffalo Chicken Dip Mac and Cheese for a football party and everyone raved about it. The blend of cheese, chicken, and buffalo sauce makes it a satisfying crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
- Chicken: 2 cups (300 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
- Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) buffalo wing sauce, 1/2 cup (120 g) cream cheese, softened, 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, 1 cup (100 g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded, 1/2 cup (50 g) crumbled blue cheese (optional), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, salt and black pepper, to taste
- Topping: 1/2 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, 2 tbsp chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbling but not browned.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Buffalo and Cheese:
- Add buffalo sauce and cream cheese, stir until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, blue cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Mac, Chicken, and Sauce:
- Fold in shredded chicken and cooked macaroni until well combined. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly on top of the pasta.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids get excited whenever I make this for dinner night, and it always sparks happy chatter around the table. It's a warm, comforting dish that everyone looks forward to.
Required Tools
Large pot, saucepan, whisk, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat (gluten), cheese (dairy). May contain eggs and soy. Always check labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 620, Total Fat 34 g, Carbohydrates 47 g, Protein 32 g
Save 
This Buffalo Chicken Dip Mac and Cheese is sure to be a favorite at your next gathering. Creamy, spicy, and loaded with flavor: enjoy every bite with friends or family.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice since it’s already cooked and easy to shred for this dish.
- → What can I use instead of blue cheese?
Feel free to substitute extra cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of blue cheese for a milder flavor.
- → How spicy is the final dish?
The level of spice depends on your buffalo sauce. You can adjust heat by adding more sauce or cayenne pepper.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated for quick meals.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour for a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- → What sides pair well?
Celery sticks, side salad, and crispy lager or IPA make great pairings to balance the dish’s richness.