Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni is the quintessential pasta for mac and cheese, and for good reason. Its small, tubular shape allows the creamy cheese sauce to nestle inside, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The slightly curved shape also helps the pasta hold onto the sauce, creating that quintessentially gooey texture that everyone loves. When selecting elbow macaroni, opt for high-quality pasta that is sturdy enough to withstand the cooking process without becoming mushy.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe. This delightful twist on the classic dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the smoky, tender flavors of pulled pork. Discover how to create the perfect cheese sauce, integrate flavors, and elevate your meal with baking techniques. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this mac and cheese promises to satisfy every palate. Explore variations, garnish ideas, and pairing suggestions that make this dish a standout at any table. Dive into a culinary experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups cooked pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)

3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes).

- Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.

- Add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth. Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Combine Pork and Pasta:

- Add the cooked pasta and pulled pork to the cheese sauce, mixing until everything is well-coated. Stir in the barbecue sauce, adding more or less according to your preference.

Prepare for Baking (Optional):

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you wish to bake the dish.

- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.

- If desired, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.

Bake (Optional):

- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

- Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 45 min | 6 servings