Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for any gathering or just a busy weeknight at home, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is your answer. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from sharp cheddar cheese and tender, slow-cooked beef. Whenever I make this dish, it feels like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s always a hit with family and friends.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for a casual dinner or impress guests at your next family gathering. Trust me, once you try this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese, it will quickly become one of your favorites too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together with minimal effort. Just let the slow cooker or instant pot do its magic while you relax.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves mac and cheese! Plus, the addition of pulled beef makes it hearty enough for even the hungriest of eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pulled beef in advance and simply combine everything when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and smoky BBQ sauce creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You probably have many of these staples in your pantry already!

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! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what flavors you love.

• Swap the protein: Instead of beef, try using shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

Start by placing your trimmed beef shoulder in the slow cooker or instant pot. Add sliced onions on top and pour in ginger beef broth. This step is crucial because cooking the meat low and slow allows it to become tender and soak up all those wonderful flavors. If you’re using an instant pot, set it to cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. If you’re going traditional with a slow cooker, let it simmer on low for around 6 hours.

Step 2: Shred the Beef

Once your cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef from the cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step not only makes it easier to mix into your mac and cheese but also helps distribute that delicious flavor throughout the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your pulled beef cools slightly, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside; this adds texture to our creamy base later!

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux—a crucial step that will thicken our cheese sauce beautifully! Gradually add warmed milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy—this will be the heart of our mac and cheese.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now comes the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded pulled beef, BBQ sauce (to taste), and cheesy goodness. Mix everything well until every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Bake It All Together

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. For an extra touch, drizzle more BBQ sauce on top before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it! A comforting Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect pulled beef mac and cheese is all about those little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for a boneless beef shoulder ensures that you get tender, flavorful meat that shreds beautifully after slow cooking. The marbling in this cut helps keep the beef juicy.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Searing your beef before cooking adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish. This caramelization enhances the overall taste, making every bite unforgettable.

• Use warmed milk: Mixing flour with warmed milk when creating your cheese sauce helps it incorporate smoothly without any lumps, resulting in a velvety texture.

• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add complexity to the flavor profile and creaminess of your mac and cheese.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your pulled beef mac and cheese to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking will make it easier to serve and help the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Serving pulled beef mac and cheese can be as simple or as fancy as you’d like! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle a handful of chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Crushed crispy onions: A sprinkle of crispy onions adds both crunch and flavor that complements the creamy texture.
• Extra BBQ sauce drizzles: A light drizzle of BBQ sauce on top not only enhances visual appeal but also intensifies the smoky flavor!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich dish, providing a delightful contrast.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the creaminess of mac and cheese, balancing out each bite.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots or Brussels sprouts add a nutritious element along with vibrant colors to your plate.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes for a comforting addition that complements the savory flavors of pulled beef mac and cheese beautifully.

Now you’re ready to impress family or friends with this amazing dish! Enjoy every cheesy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how you can keep your delicious dish fresh.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the pulled beef mac and cheese cool down to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk while reheating.

FAQs

Have questions about making this pulled beef mac and cheese? You’re not alone!

Can I use a different type of cheese for my Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.

How do I make pulled beef for Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

You can make pulled beef using a slow cooker or instant pot. Simply cook trimmed boneless beef shoulder with onions and ginger broth until tender, then shred!

Can I make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese without BBQ sauce?

Yes! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of BBQ sauce or use a homemade version that suits your taste.

What sides pair well with Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

A fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or steamed broccoli are great sides that complement this rich dish perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table! Pulled beef mac and cheese is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate that everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process, share it with family or friends, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists. Happy cooking!