Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

This pulled beef mac and cheese is a hearty dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender, flavorful pulled beef. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this recipe stands out thanks to its rich flavors and satisfying textures. With the added zing of BBQ sauce drizzled on top, it becomes a comfort food favorite that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: The sharp cheddar cheese creates a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the savory beef.
• Easy to Prepare: Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot makes this dish simple and stress-free.
• Versatile Meal: It’s great for any occasion—serve it at dinner parties, casual get-togethers, or as a comforting weeknight meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner option.
• Kid Approved: This tasty dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Tools and Preparation

To make this pulled beef mac and cheese, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
• Large Pot
• Colander
• Whisk
• Baking Dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: These appliances allow you to cook the beef slowly until it’s tender without constant monitoring.
• Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta; it ensures even cooking for your elbow macaroni.
• Colander: A must-have for draining cooked pasta efficiently.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

This pulled beef mac and cheese is packed full of sharp cheddar cheese and lots of slow cooker or instant pot pulled beef. For added flavor, I drizzled the top with even more BBQ sauce.

For the Pulled Beef

• 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder (fat trimmed)
• 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
• 1 (12 ounce) can ginger beer/ale (Vernors is my favorite)
• 1-2 cups BBQ sauce

For the Mac and Cheese

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

1. Place the trimmed beef shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
2. Add sliced onions and ginger beer/ale to the pot.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours in a slow cooker or on high pressure for about 60 minutes in an Instant Pot until tender.
4. Once cooked, shred the beef with two forks and mix in BBQ sauce to taste.

Step 2: Cook Elbow Macaroni

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain using a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
2. Fold in the pulled beef mixture gently until combined.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer everything into a baking dish if desired; drizzle with extra BBQ sauce on top.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious pulled beef mac and cheese!

How to Serve Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

Pulled beef mac and cheese is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, having a cozy family dinner, or just enjoying a quiet night in, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

With Extra BBQ Sauce

• Drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the mac and cheese for a flavorful punch.
• Serve alongside extra sauce for guests who want more.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, crunchy texture.
• This adds color and balances the richness of the dish.

Served with Garlic Bread

• Pair your pulled beef mac and cheese with crispy garlic bread.
• This side enhances the meal and provides a great way to scoop up any leftovers.

Accompanied by Coleslaw

• A side of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
• The crunchiness complements the softness of the pasta and beef.

As Part of a BBQ Feast

• Serve your dish as part of a larger BBQ spread with ribs, sausages, and baked beans.
• This creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

Creating the ultimate pulled beef mac and cheese requires attention to detail. Following these tips will ensure your dish is both delicious and satisfying.

• Choose the right beef: Opt for boneless beef shoulder as it becomes tender after slow cooking, infusing rich flavors into your dish.
• Add flavor to the pasta: Cook elbow macaroni in seasoned water or broth for added taste before mixing with cheese sauce.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Grate sharp cheddar cheese yourself; pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-clumping agents that prevent melting smoothly.
• Mix thoroughly: Ensure all elements are well combined; this guarantees every bite is packed with pulled beef and cheesy goodness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crispy bacon bits or breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

When serving pulled beef mac and cheese, complementing sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This dish adds a healthy green element while balancing out the richness of mac and cheese.
2. Sweet Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread pairs well with savory flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that contrasts nicely with creamy dishes.
4. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans add depth to your meal while echoing flavors from the pulled beef.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a comforting crunch alongside your cheesy pasta.
6. Fried Pickles: These tangy treats provide a fun finger food option and add an unexpected twist to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes is key to making the perfect pulled beef mac and cheese. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using tough cuts of meat: Always choose a tender cut like boneless beef shoulder for the best results. This ensures your pulled beef is juicy and flavorful.
• Not seasoning enough: Skimping on spices can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to generously season your beef and pasta for a delicious dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: It’s easy to overcook elbow macaroni. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Skipping the BBQ sauce drizzle: The BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget to drizzle some on top for that irresistible touch!
• Neglecting cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can ruin your dish. Opt for sharp cheddar for a rich, creamy experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring it’s well-sealed.

Reheating Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes) stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and reheat over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pulled beef mac and cheese that may help you in your cooking journey.

How can I customize my Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pulled beef and cheese sauce in advance. Just combine before serving and bake when ready.

What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

Choosing a sweet tangy BBQ sauce complements the richness of the dish perfectly. Feel free to try different flavors based on your palate!

Is Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This pulled beef mac and cheese is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or sauces. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese. This hearty dish combines creamy, sharp cheddar cheese with tender, flavorful pulled beef, making it an irresistible option for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Enhanced by a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Easy to prepare using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion and is perfect for meal prep. Enjoy every bite of this rich and satisfying dish that brings warmth and joy to your table.

• Total Time: 12 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder
• 1 large yellow onion
• 1 can (12 ounces) ginger beer/ale
• 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

Instructions

1. Place trimmed beef shoulder in a slow cooker or Instant Pot with sliced onion and ginger beer/ale. Cook on low for 8 hours or high pressure for 60 minutes. Shred beef and mix with BBQ sauce.
2. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour to create a roux, then whisk in warmed milk until smooth. Gradually add cheddar cheese until melted.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and gently fold in pulled beef mixture.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) or 60 minutes (Instant Pot)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Customize your mac and cheese by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli. For a flavor twist, try different types of cheese such as gouda or pepper jack. This dish can be made ahead of time; just combine everything before baking when ready.