When you combine spicy buffalo chicken with creamy mac and cheese, you know you’re in for a flavor explosion. But wrap it up in a crispy breadcrumb crust and bake it to golden perfection? That’s next-level comfort food.
These Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Mac ’n’ Cheese Bombs are packed with shredded buffalo chicken, cheddar, mozzarella, tangy blue cheese, and ranch—all rolled up in crispy, bite-sized bombs. Perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and unforgettable.
Why I Love This Recipe
These baked bombs are a showstopper because they’re:
- Loaded with cheesy mac and buffalo chicken in every bite
- Crispy on the outside, melty and creamy inside
- Easy to prep ahead and bake when ready
- Fun to eat, dip, and share—ideal for parties or family-style appetizers
It’s everything you love about wings, mac ’n’ cheese, and game day snacks rolled into one.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 lb cooked macaroni noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles
- ½ cup ranch dressing (plus more for dipping)
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Optional Add-Ins & Swaps
- Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat
- Swap blue cheese for more mozzarella if you prefer less tang
- Add chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra flavor
- For gluten-free, use GF pasta and breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven
Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and spray with cooking spray. - Make the buffalo chicken
In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Set aside. - Mix the mac & cheese base
In another bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, and blue cheese. - Make the cheese sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper. - Combine
Pour the cheese sauce over the mac mixture. Stir in ranch dressing. Mix until creamy and well combined. - Form the bombs
Scoop about ¼ cup of mac mixture and flatten in your hand. Place a spoonful of buffalo chicken in the center. Carefully fold the mac mixture around it to form a ball. - Bread the bombs
Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. - Bake
Arrange the bombs on the baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crisp. - Serve
Let cool slightly. Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Chill the mac mixture before forming the bombs to make them easier to shape.
- Use wet hands to prevent sticking while forming the bombs.
- Want extra crunch? Broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare and bread the bombs, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These spicy cheese bombs pair perfectly with:
- Crockpot Nacho Dip for a full snack spread
- Cheesy Hot Dip to keep the cheese fest going
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a bold and easy party combo
- Blueberry Lemonade to cool off the heat
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites to end on a sweet note
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F or air fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes
- Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re all about spicy, cheesy goodness, don’t miss these:
Final Thoughts
Ooey-Gooey Buffalo Chicken Mac ’n’ Cheese Bombs are the ultimate comfort-meets-party snack. Whether you’re hosting, tailgating, or just treating yourself, these spicy, cheesy, baked bites are guaranteed to steal the show.
Tried them? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your golden, melty creations—I’d love to see how yours turn out!
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