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To ensure clarity, here’s a quick recap of the ingredients you'll need for these delicious bites:

Buffalo Chicken Mac Cheese Bites

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Buffalo Bliss Mac & Cheese Bites! This delectable snack combines creamy mac and cheese with a spicy buffalo kick, making them perfect for game nights or casual gatherings. With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress. Easy to prepare, customize with your favorite ingredients, and ideal for sharing, they transform a classic dish into an irresistible delight. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

1 cup cooked, shredded chicken

1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for serving)

1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley or chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot you used for the macaroni, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, stirring constantly with a whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency, about 3-5 minutes.

      Season the Sauce: Once thickened, mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine the flavors.

        Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until completely melted and smooth. If using, fold in the crumbled blue cheese until well combined.

          Combine Chicken with Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. Drizzle in the buffalo sauce and stir until the mixture is evenly distributed.

            Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a large bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing it to firm up for easier handling.

              Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

                Form the Bites: Once chilled, scoop out 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into small bite-sized balls. Place each formed bite onto the prepared baking sheet.

                  Prepare the Topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the tops of each mac and cheese bite for a crispy texture.

                    Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and crispy.

                      Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with additional buffalo sauce if desired, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8