Buffalo Mac and Cheese Recipe Vegetarian Style Made Easy

Buffalo mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist, perfect for anyone craving a rich, cheesy meal with a kick. This vegetarian version brings together creamy cheddar cheese, tender pasta, and the bold, tangy flavor of buffalo sauce, all without any meat.

It’s a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo wings in a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to your heat preference!

Whether you’re a vegetarian looking to spice up your mac and cheese or simply a fan of buffalo flavor, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of gooey cheese and spicy sauce will surely satisfy your taste buds while keeping things meat-free and family-friendly.

Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleasing buffalo mac and cheese that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This buffalo mac and cheese recipe is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and fiery buffalo heat without any meat. It’s incredibly comforting yet vibrant in flavor, making it ideal for vegetarians and spice lovers alike.

It’s also versatile—you can adjust the spice level to your liking, add in your favorite veggies, or even make it vegan with simple swaps. This recipe uses pantry staples and comes together quickly, making it a great weeknight meal or a tasty party dish.

Best of all, it’s kid-friendly enough to sneak in some spice and veggies, and adult-approved with its bold buffalo punch. You’ll love how satisfying and delicious this dish is, no matter your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cooked and chopped cauliflower florets (optional, for added veggies)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for topping)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (optional)
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will form a smooth paste—the roux—that thickens the sauce.
3. Make the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add cheeses and seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning or buffalo sauce for desired heat.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and optional cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until the pasta is fully coated with the buffalo cheese sauce.
6. Optional baking step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles, and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top before serving for a fresh, mild bite that complements the spicy buffalo sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the cheese sauce.

• Make it vegan: Use vegan butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheeses. Replace buffalo sauce with a vegan-friendly version.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chickpeas or crumbled tofu tossed in buffalo sauce for a vegetarian protein boost.
• Boost veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.
• Control spice: Adjust buffalo sauce quantity or use a milder hot sauce to suit your heat tolerance.
• Crispy topping: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This buffalo mac and cheese is a hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with fresh, crisp sides can balance the richness beautifully. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crunchy celery sticks to echo the classic buffalo wing sides.

For a more filling meal, roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli work wonderfully. You can also serve it with garlic bread or warm cornbread to soak up every bit of the spicy sauce.

And if you love trying new flavors, you might enjoy pairing it with recipes like our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for a full menu of delicious dishes.

Conclusion

Buffalo mac and cheese vegetarian style is a fantastic way to enjoy a spicy, creamy comfort food that’s meat-free and easy to prepare. With its bold buffalo flavor and luscious cheese sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation, whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile meal that pleases everyone at the table. Don’t forget to check out other exciting recipes like our Lamb Tenderloin Recipes or the creamy goodness of our Halibut Dip Recipe for more culinary inspiration.

Give this buffalo mac and cheese a try, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with a fiery twist that’s perfect for any day of the year!

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