Save A rich and comforting dish combining creamy macaroni and cheese with tender, smoky barbecue pulled pork, finished with a crispy topping.
The first time I made this barbecue pulled pork mac and cheese for family dinner, everyone went back for seconds. It quickly became my go-to for potlucks and game day gatherings because it combines two comfort food favorites in one easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- Pulled Pork: 2 cups cooked pulled pork (with barbecue sauce)
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Unsalted Butter: 3 tbsp
- All-purpose Flour: 3 tbsp
- Whole Milk: 2 cups
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
- Melted Butter: 2 tbsp
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
- Fresh Parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a large baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce Base:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Seasonings:
- Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Mix Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
- Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Layer with Pulled Pork:
- Spread half of the mac and cheese in the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the pulled pork over this layer. Top with remaining mac and cheese.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until topping is golden and bubbling at the edges.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save This mac and cheese always reminds me of cozy Sunday afternoons making food together in the kitchen, with the irresistible smell drawing the whole family to the table before it even comes out of the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh green salad or classic coleslaw for balance. It's also delicious alongside roasted vegetables or cornbread.
Customization Ideas
Try using smoked cheddar for extra depth, or swap in pulled chicken if you don't eat pork. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or jalapeños for a kick.
Pairing Recommendations
A glass of Zinfandel or a smoky amber ale complements the flavors perfectly and turns dinner into a special occasion.
Save This pulled pork mac and cheese is ultimate comfort in every bite. Serve it hot, and watch it become an instant family favorite!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese is used in the sauce?
Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are combined to create a creamy, flavorful sauce with a hint of smoked paprika.
- → Can I substitute the pulled pork with another protein?
Yes, pulled chicken can be used as an alternative for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → How do I achieve the crispy topping?
The topping combines panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese, baked until golden and crunchy.
- → What is the best way to cook the macaroni for this dish?
Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente to maintain texture after baking.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or coleslaw complements the rich flavors and balances the meal.