This Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is a warm and indulgent dish, combining the smoky flavors of pulled pork with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness and comfort, making it a standout on any dinner table.
Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends, this dish is quick to prepare and always satisfying. You can customize it by adding extra toppings like crispy bacon or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for an added touch of flavor. Whether you’re craving something hearty or need a meal that will impress, this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb pulled pork (cooked)
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8 oz elbow macaroni
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 cups whole milk
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pulled pork and cook for 3-4 minutes to heat it through. Remove the pork and set aside.
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In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
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Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to cook while whisking, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce is smooth, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
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Add the cooked macaroni and pulled pork to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 640 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Flavorful Comfort Food Combination
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s loved by people of all ages. It’s creamy, cheesy, and easy to make, making it the perfect dish for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. But when you add pulled pork to the mix, the dish takes on a whole new level of flavor. The smoky, tender pulled pork adds a savory depth to the creamy mac and cheese, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Pulled pork is typically made by slow-cooking pork shoulder or butt, allowing the meat to become incredibly tender and easy to shred. This method of cooking infuses the pork with smoky, savory flavors that are further enhanced when combined with the richness of cheese and pasta. The result is a hearty dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Why Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is its versatility. It’s an incredibly satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be served as a side dish to complement other barbecue favorites. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a BBQ party, Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
This dish is also an excellent way to use up leftover pulled pork. If you’ve recently made a batch of pulled pork or have some leftovers from a previous meal, you can easily incorporate it into this mac and cheese for a quick, flavorful dinner. It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers and create a completely new meal that’s just as delicious as the original.
Preparation Tips for the Best Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
To make the best Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese, start with high-quality ingredients. Using fresh, sharp cheddar cheese and creamy mozzarella will help create the perfect sauce. The sharp cheddar provides a tangy, bold flavor that complements the richness of the mozzarella and the smokiness of the pulled pork. Additionally, you’ll want to use tender, well-seasoned pulled pork to really make this dish shine. If you’re cooking the pulled pork yourself, be sure to let it slow-cook until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Another tip for making the best mac and cheese is to cook the pasta al dente, or firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and affect the texture of the dish, so be sure to cook it just right. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it will absorb the cheesy sauce, adding to the creamy texture.
For a little extra flavor, consider adding some seasonings to your cheese sauce. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika can really elevate the flavor of the mac and cheese, giving it a rich, smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the pulled pork.
Customizing Your Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
While the basic version of Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is already a delicious and satisfying meal, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences. If you like your mac and cheese extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda, parmesan, or even blue cheese, to create a unique flavor profile.
If you want to add some extra texture to the dish, consider topping it with breadcrumbs and baking it in the oven for a few minutes. This will give the mac and cheese a crispy, golden crust that adds a nice contrast to the creamy interior. You can also add some cooked vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to bring in additional flavors and nutrients.
For those who love a little heat, adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will give the dish a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can top the mac and cheese with some crispy bacon or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for even more flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is a filling dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. If you’re looking to make it a more complete meal, serve it alongside a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts, also make a great accompaniment, adding some freshness and crunch to the meal.
If you’re hosting a BBQ or casual gathering, Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese goes perfectly with other classic BBQ sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. These sides complement the smoky flavors of the pulled pork and create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
For a fun twist, you can even turn Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese into a hearty casserole by layering it with additional pulled pork and cheese before baking it in the oven. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust on top and make for an even more indulgent meal.
Conclusion
Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining two classic favorites into one mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for a party, or a way to use up leftover pulled pork, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The smoky, tender pulled pork pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy macaroni, creating a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. With its versatility, easy preparation, and endless customization options, Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. So why not give it a try and see why this dish is loved by so many?