Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone to the table, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is it! Imagine a creamy, cheesy embrace enveloping tender pulled beef, all topped off with a drizzle of BBQ sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without too much fuss.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home—not just because it’s delicious, but also because it’s so easy to make. Whether you choose to whip it up in your slow cooker or an Instant Pot, you’ll find it’s a hands-off meal that yields mouthwatering results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for any cook.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mac and cheese! Adding pulled beef takes it over the top for both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pulled beef ahead of time, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and savory BBQ sauce creates an irresistible flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is simple with these wholesome ingredients. Most of them are pantry staples, which means you can get started right away!

For the Pulled Beef

• 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder (fat trimmed)
• 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
• 1 (12 ounce) can ginger beef broth/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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to fit your taste. Here are some fun ideas!

• Swap the protein: You can use shredded chicken or even jackfruit for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who like a little heat!

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

Start by placing your trimmed boneless beef shoulder into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Layer the sliced onion on top, then pour in the ginger beef broth. This step is crucial as it keeps the meat moist during cooking. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for about 8 hours; if you’re using an Instant Pot, cook it on high pressure for about 60 minutes followed by natural release.

Step 2: Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. Mixing in about one cup of BBQ sauce at this stage adds flavor while keeping the meat juicy. Set aside while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook your elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking pasta slightly underdone ensures it holds up well when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot used for cooking pasta, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux—a key component that thickens your cheese sauce! Whisk continuously until golden brown before gradually adding warmed milk. Keep whisking until smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Remove from heat and stir in your shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Gently fold in your cooked macaroni and shredded pulled beef mixture—this is where all those flavors come together beautifully!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer everything into a baking dish and top with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—your very own Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese! Get ready to serve up smiles all around as everyone digs into this hearty dish!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Making pulled beef mac and cheese is an enjoyable journey, and these tips will help you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also memorable!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for a boneless beef shoulder ensures tenderness and flavor during the slow cooking process, resulting in beautifully shredded meat.
• Don’t skip the BBQ sauce: Adding BBQ sauce both during cooking and as a drizzle before serving enhances the depth of flavor, giving your dish that smoky, tangy kick.
• Cook the pasta al dente: Cooking your elbow macaroni just shy of fully tender will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce and baked.
• Use warm milk for the cheese sauce: Warming your milk helps to create a smoother cheese sauce that combines better with the flour, preventing lumps and ensuring a creamy texture.
• Experiment with cheese blends: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, mixing in some pepper jack or gouda can add an extra layer of flavor that elevates your mac and cheese to new heights.

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Serving pulled beef mac and cheese is all about presentation! A hearty portion topped with garnishes can turn this comfort food into a show-stopping meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness, brightening up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed tortilla chips: Adding crunchy tortilla chips on top provides a fun textural contrast, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Sliced green onions: These offer a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce while adding a crunchy texture to your meal.
• Coleslaw: The crispness and tanginess of coleslaw balance out the richness of pulled beef mac and cheese, creating a well-rounded plate.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts add color, nutrition, and a deliciously caramelized flavor that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the pulled beef while providing a delightful crunch—perfect for summer gatherings.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pulled beef mac and cheese will not only taste incredible but also look appealing on any table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning your week’s meals or just want to have some leftovers on hand, this dish stores and reheats beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious pulled beef mac and cheese? Here are some common ones!

Can I use a different cut of beef for pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

Yes, while boneless shoulder is preferred for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or chuck roast. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

How do I make my pulled beef Mac and Cheese spicier?

To add some heat, consider using spicy BBQ sauce or mixing in diced jalapeños before baking. You could also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving!

Can I make pulled beef Mac and Cheese without an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook the beef in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature for several hours until tender.

What can I serve with pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for an extra comforting meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this pulled beef mac and cheese as much as I do! It’s a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. With layers of flavor from the savory pulled beef and rich cheddar cheese, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try it out—happy cooking!