Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Bake
Transform your dinner routine with this Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Bake, a comforting and flavorful casserole dinner recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy macaroni in one irresistible pan. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of casserole dinner recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully, or you can cook and shred chicken breasts.
- Buffalo Sauce: Use your favorite brand. For less spice, you can mix it with a little melted butter.
- Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any small pasta shape like ditalini or small shells will work.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is recommended for flavor, but a cheddar-jack blend or mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
- Milk: Any type of dairy milk works for the sauce.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling, if desired)
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional (for topping):
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550
- Tools needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, large pot, medium saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Macaroni
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Mix the Chicken and Buffalo Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with 1 cup of buffalo sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until a paste forms. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Bake the Buffalo Chicken Macaroni
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. This delicious casserole dinner recipe is almost ready!
6. Garnish and Serve
If using, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions over the top of the hot casserole. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty casserole dinner recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Add diced celery or finely chopped carrots to the chicken mixture for added crunch and nutrition.
- Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika in the cheese sauce can add a nice depth of flavor.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What kind of chicken should you use?
Cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs work well. A store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut for this casserole dinner recipe.
How do you make the buffalo sauce less spicy?
You can mix your buffalo sauce with an equal amount of melted butter or a little cream cheese to temper the heat.
Can you freeze this Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Bake?
While you can, the texture of the macaroni might change slightly after freezing and reheating. If you choose to freeze, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What if you don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses. The flavor profile will change slightly but will still be delicious.
Is this a good casserole dinner recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well and provides several satisfying meals, making it perfect for meal prepping.
