Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese (Ranch Crunch Topping)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients for the Best Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese with Ranch Crunch Topping

For the Mac & Cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp flour

• 2 cups milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Ranch Crunch Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tsp ranch seasoning

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

Optional Garnish:

• Green onions

• Drizzle of ranch or extra buffalo sauce

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

3. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

4. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

5. Mix in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

6. Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring until fully coated.

7. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, ranch seasoning, and Parmesan.

8. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the ranch crunch topping evenly over the top.

9. Broil in the oven for 2–4 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.

10. Remove, garnish with green onions and drizzle with ranch or buffalo sauce if desired. Serve hot.

Pro Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep

• Broiling adds that crispy, restaurant-style finish

• Adjust buffalo sauce for your heat level

• Add bacon bits for extra flavor