Save to Pinterest A rich and comforting dish combining creamy macaroni and cheese with tender, smoky barbecue pulled pork, finished with a crispy topping.
I first made this dish for a game night with friends, and it was an instant hit. The smoky pulled pork paired perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, making it a requested favorite for gatherings ever since.
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 the Baking 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:
- 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 Cheeses and Seasoning:
- Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble:
- 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.
- Make and Add 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 and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest My family loves this on cold evenings, especially when everyone gathers at the table eager to dig in. It's a warm memory maker that brings smiles every time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this rich dish with a crisp green salad or classic coleslaw for refreshing contrast.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Each serving contains about 720 calories, 38 g fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein. Always check product labels for hidden allergens and adjust to your dietary needs.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
You can assemble the dish one day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Save to Pinterest This barbecue pulled pork mac and cheese brings bold flavor and comfort in every forkful. Enjoy it with loved ones and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds cheese sauce well and layers nicely with pulled pork.
- → Can smoked cheddar enhance the flavor?
Yes, using smoked cheddar adds extra depth and complements the barbecue notes of the pork.
- → How do I get a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle evenly before baking.
- → Is it possible to substitute the pork?
Pulled chicken can replace pork for a lighter alternative without losing the smoky flavor profile.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or coleslaw provides refreshing balance alongside this rich, creamy entree.