Buffalo Mac & Cheese

Created by our chef–dietitian team and scaled specifically for school kitchens, this comfort-food classic builds in vegetables, protein, and whole grains to power the school day. It’s creamy, a little zesty, and topped with crispy Buffalo Ranch Fava Bean Crisps for extra texture in every bite, striking the perfect balance between familiar and exciting.

Each 2” x 3 3/4” serving provides 2 M/MA, 1 Grain, and ½ cup Vegetables (¼ cup Red/Orange and ¼ cup Other), for a complete lunch in one satisfying square.

The standout components in this craveable entrée are Zee Zees Buffalo Ranch Fava Bean Crisps (#624812) and Fully Cooked Halal Diced Chicken (#624446).

Zee Zees Buffalo Ranch Fava Bean Crisps add bold flavor and irresistible crunch, doubling as a legume contribution while delivering that restaurant-style finish students love. Mixed with shredded cheese and baked right on top, they create a golden, textured layer that sets this mac and cheese apart.

Our Fully Cooked Halal Diced Chicken (#624446) makes serving simple and inclusive. CN labeled (1 M/MA per 1.25 oz), made with simple ingredients, no breading, and bulk packed for smooth prep, it allows you to serve one consistent protein for everyone, whether meeting halal needs or simply looking for a high-quality diced chicken option. It is ideal for speed-scratch bowls, wraps, salads, and more, bringing versatility beyond this recipe.

It’s the kind of restaurant-inspired comfort food students will be raving about long after lunch, racing to the line every time it makes a return to the menu 

Here is why it works so well:

• Built for school kitchens 
  Scaled for 100 servings and baked in four standard 12” x 20” x 4” steam table pans, this recipe fits seamlessly into existing equipment and service models. 
• Customizable to your operation 
  
  • Halal-friendly: Use our Fully Cooked Halal Diced Chicken (#624446) for one consistent meal for everyone, or swap in the protein you have on hand. 
  • Use any short-cut pasta such as macaroni, penne, rotini, or shells. 
  • Blend American, cheddar, or mozzarella to match your kitchen’s inventory. 
  • Choose full-flavor cheese for the best melt. If using low-fat cheese, allow a few extra minutes in the oven to achieve a warm, melted finish. 
• Flavor flexibility 
  Before garnishing, evenly add 1½ cups of buffalo sauce (about 1 teaspoon per serving) for an extra kick. If your students prefer less heat, simply skip this step. 
•  Visual appeal at service 
  Reserve ¼ cup each of shredded carrots and diced celery before mixing to garnish the finished dish, ensuring credited vegetables are clearly identifiable on the line.
  

For best results, bake uncovered at 350°F just until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for at least 15 seconds. For service, cut each pan into 5x5 portions and serve one piece with a metal spatula for clean, consistent squares. 

This bold comfort-food favorite comes together with trusted, cafeteria-ready ingredients designed for scale and simplicity.

• 6 lb 4 oz  -  Whole Wheat Elbow Macaroni
• 3 cups  -  Buffalo Sauce
• 3 1/2 qt  -  Prepared Cheese Sauce
• 5 1/2 lb  -  Shredded Carrots
• 8 lb  -  Diced Celery
• 1 lb  -  Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 4 lb 11 oz  -  Zee Zees Buffalo Ranch Fava Bean Crisps (#624812)
• 4 lb  -  Fully Cooked Halal Diced Chicken (#624446)

Bring bold flavor and serious comfort to your lunch line with Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese. The full Cafeteria Case Recipe card, complete with step-by-step instructions, pan yields, and serving guidance, is ready for you to download and put into action. From its creamy buffalo-style cheese sauce to its crispy fava bean topping, this entrée delivers the craveable flavor students love with the operational ease you need.