Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings everyone to the table, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is just the recipe you need. It’s a delightful blend of creamy cheese and tender pulled beef, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Every bite is a comforting hug in a bowl, and I love how easy it is to prepare!

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. You can whip it up in your slow cooker or Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy that tender beef without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mac and cheese, and adding pulled beef takes it to a whole new level!
• Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and methods, you’ll have dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
• Make-ahead convenience: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making leftovers a treat for busy days.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese:

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 Macaroni 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 quite flexible, allowing you to play around with different flavors! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add some veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the cheese: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick that spice lovers will enjoy.

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

Start by placing the trimmed beef shoulder, sliced onion, and ginger beef broth/ale into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Cooking the beef low and slow allows it to become incredibly tender while soaking up all those delicious flavors. If using an Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for about 60 minutes; otherwise, cook on low for 6-8 hours in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

While your beef is cooking away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add in the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Draining it properly ensures that your mac and cheese won’t be too watery later on.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt the unsalted butter. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly until it turns slightly golden—this helps create a roux that thickens your cheese sauce. Gradually whisk in warmed whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Once thickened, stir in your shredded sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into creamy perfection.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your beef is done cooking, shred it into bite-sized pieces with two forks. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with both the pulled beef and prepared cheese sauce. Mix everything well so that each noodle gets coated with cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Serve with BBQ Sauce

To finish off this delightful dish, drizzle additional BBQ sauce over each serving of Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor that truly ties everything together—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Creating a delicious pulled beef mac and cheese can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for boneless beef shoulder as it becomes wonderfully tender during cooking, making it perfect for shredding.

• Let it simmer: If you have the time, let your pulled beef cook on low for longer in the slow cooker. This allows the flavors to develop even further and results in melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

• Use warm milk: Warming your milk before adding it to the cheese sauce helps create a smoother, creamier texture. Cold milk can cause the cheese to seize up and become clumpy.

• Add cheese gradually: Stir in your shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time while making the sauce. This ensures an even melt and prevents any lumps from forming.

• Top with extra BBQ sauce: A drizzle of BBQ sauce on top just before serving not only adds flavor but also gives your mac and cheese an eye-catching presentation!

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Serving pulled beef mac and cheese is all about presentation and balance. Here are some ideas to make your dish truly shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish.
• Crushed potato chips: For an unexpected crunch, sprinkle crushed chips on top. They provide a delightful textural contrast that your guests will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread makes for a comforting side that complements the creamy richness of mac and cheese perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the heaviness of the main dish. The acidity from the dressing works wonders!
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only brings color to your plate but also adds nutrients. Drizzle with lemon juice for added zest.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that pairs well with BBQ flavors. It’s easy to prepare and brings a fun, summery vibe to the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pulled beef mac and cheese is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

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

• Portion out the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave a little space at the top of each container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different twist.

How do I make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into your pulled beef before mixing it with the mac and cheese. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What can I serve with Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for a truly comforting meal.

Can I make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for making ahead. Just store it in the fridge or freeze it as outlined above, then reheat when ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope this pulled beef mac and cheese becomes a comforting staple in your home! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors that bring everyone together. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on the recipe. Happy cooking!