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 for my family, it quickly became the most requested dinner on chilly weekends. The creamy cheese sauce paired with smoky pork always brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients
- Pulled Pork: 2 cups cooked pulled pork (with barbecue sauce)
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Topping: 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a large baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil macaroni in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Layer Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork:
- Spread half the mac and cheese in the baking dish. Top evenly with pulled pork. Add the remaining mac and cheese on top.
- Prep Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake 20–25 minutes, until topping is golden and edges are bubbling.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Save Sharing this dish for Sunday dinner always brings back memories of cozy evenings, laughter, and the irresistible aroma lingering in the kitchen.
Required Tools
Large pot, saucepan, whisk, baking dish (approx. 9x13 inches), mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons are all you need for this recipe.
Nutritional Information
Each serving delivers 720 calories, 38 g fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein for a filling crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or coleslaw and pair with Zinfandel or a smoky amber ale.
Save This barbecue pulled pork mac and cheese is unforgettable comfort food for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Enjoy every creamy, smoky bite!