Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this pulled beef mac and cheese. This delectable dish features creamy macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, paired with tender pulled beef that brings an unexpected twist to a beloved classic. Baked until golden and bubbly, this mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night at home. With the robust flavors of sharp cheddar and zesty BBQ sauce, every bite promises satisfaction. Enjoy it as a hearty main course or an impressive side dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder
- 1 large yellow onion
- 1 can ginger beer (12 ounces)
- 1–2 cups BBQ sauce
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pulled beef by placing the trimmed beef shoulder in a slow cooker or instant pot, topping with sliced onions, ginger beer, and BBQ sauce. Cook on low for about 8 hours in a slow cooker or follow instant pot instructions.
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Create the cheese sauce by melting butter in a skillet, whisking in flour to form a roux, then gradually adding warmed milk and stirring until smooth. Mix in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with shredded pulled beef and cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider seasoning your beef before cooking. Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mac and cheese mix. Serve with crispy toppings such as bacon bits or breadcrumbs for extra texture.