Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

A Comfort Food Dream

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy mac and cheese and smoky, flavorful pulled pork, then this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe is about to become your new favorite dish! This indulgent meal combines the best of both worlds: tender, saucy pulled pork layered over a cheesy, creamy macaroni base and baked to perfection. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or game day, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings together two classic favorites in one dish. The gooey, creamy texture of the mac and cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet and smoky flavors of the pulled pork. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can even use leftover pulled pork for a quick meal!

This recipe is perfect for:

  • Busy home cooks looking for a hearty meal
  • Barbecue lovers who want a fun twist on a classic dish
  • Families who need a crowd-pleasing dinner option
  • Potlucks and gatherings where you want to bring a dish everyone will love

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this incredible dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 1/3 cups cottage cheese
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

For the Pulled Pork Topping:

  • 4 cups pulled pork
  • 1 1/4 cups barbecue sauce

Optional Garnishes:

  • French fried onions
  • Freshly snipped parsley

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • 9×13 baking pan (or slightly larger)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a greased 9×13 baking pan.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add in the flour, salt, and sugar, stirring until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a boil. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat to low, then add the Velveeta cheese, stirring until fully melted. Stir in the cottage cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.

3. Assemble the Dish

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring gently to combine. In a separate bowl, mix the pulled pork with barbecue sauce, then spoon it evenly over the mac and cheese. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.

4. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

5. Add Final Touches & Serve

For extra crunch and flavor, top with French fried onions or freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a kick.
  • Use different cheeses: Swap out sharp cheddar for smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
  • Slow cooker shortcut: If you have leftover pulled pork, heat it in a slow cooker with barbecue sauce while you prepare the mac and cheese.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble everything a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ºF for about 20 minutes or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep them creamy.

Best Food & Drink Pairings

This dish is rich and indulgent, so pair it with something light and refreshing! Here are a few great options:

  • Side Dishes: Coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad
  • Drinks: A crisp apple cider, a hoppy IPA, or a glass of sweet tea

FAQ

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but shredding your own cheese from a block will give you a smoother and creamier sauce since pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta.

Can I freeze Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warm.

What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?

Use your favorite! Whether you prefer a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce, choose one that complements the flavors of the pulled pork.

Final Thoughts

This Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, smoky, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy!

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