Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comfort food masterpiece that’ll warm your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty to feed the family or a cozy gathering with friends. Trust me, once you serve this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

What makes this recipe special is the combination of tender pulled beef and gooey sharp cheddar cheese. The BBQ sauce drizzled on top adds a delightful tanginess that ties everything together. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Delicious: The combination of pulled beef and cheesy goodness creates an explosion of flavor.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish without stress.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy, meaty goodness!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pulled beef in advance, making it perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese uses wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce if you love a bit of heat.
• Cheese lovers delight: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

Start by preparing your pulled beef. Place the trimmed boneless beef shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot along with sliced onions and ginger beef broth. Cooking low and slow allows the meat to become tender and flavorful, so don’t rush this step! If you’re using an Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for about 60 minutes, while in a slow cooker, let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures that your macaroni has just the right texture before it joins all those delicious flavors later.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux; cook until golden. Gradually whisk in warmed whole milk until smooth—this will create your creamy cheese sauce! When thickened, stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and heavenly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now comes the best part! Fluff up your pulled beef (it should be super tender) and mix it into the cooked macaroni along with BBQ sauce. Then pour in that luscious cheese sauce and stir until everything is well combined. This step brings all those wonderful flavors together into one comforting dish.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Drizzle more BBQ sauce on top if desired and bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. This final baking step adds wonderful texture!

Enjoy every creamy bite of this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect pulled beef mac and cheese is all about those little details that elevate your dish to something truly special. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious meal everyone will love!

• Choose Quality Beef: Using a good cut of beef shoulder ensures tenderness and flavor. The better the quality, the more delicious your pulled beef will be, making your mac and cheese irresistible.

• Cook Low and Slow: Whether using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, cooking the beef low and slow allows it to become incredibly tender. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. The cheese is the heart of this dish, so using high-quality cheese will make all the difference in taste.

• Add BBQ Sauce Gradually: Mix the BBQ sauce into your pulled beef gradually. This way, you can control the flavor intensity and avoid overpowering your mac and cheese with too much sweetness.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like breadcrumbs or additional cheese. A crunchy topping adds texture contrast, making each bite even more delightful!

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Serving pulled beef mac and cheese can be both fun and visually appealing! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this hearty dish into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the cheese.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions bring a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully while adding a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side that complements the flavors well.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, brightening up the rich flavors of mac and cheese. The creamy dressing pairs well with BBQ flavors from the pulled beef.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance to your meal. Its vibrant green color makes your plate look inviting while providing a healthy side option.

• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with BBQ dishes. Grilled or boiled, it’s always a hit during summer cookouts!

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this comforting pulled beef mac and cheese recipe! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep. It not only tastes fantastic but also stores well, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
• Alternatively, heat in a pot on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious dish, you’re in the right place!

Can I use different types of cheese in pulled beef mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist.

How can I make pulled beef mac and cheese without using alcohol?

You can easily substitute the ginger ale with additional beef broth or a non-alcoholic ginger beer for that sweet and spicy flavor without any alcohol.

What’s the best way to prepare pulled beef for my mac and cheese?

Using a slow cooker or instant pot works wonders. Just season your beef shoulder well and let it cook low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! You can replace the pulled beef with jackfruit or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this pulled beef mac and cheese as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or serving up family favorites, this recipe is special because it combines rich flavors with heartwarming nostalgia. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!