Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, let me introduce you to my favorite pulled beef Mac and Cheese. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of tender, flavorful pulled beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni creates a meal that is hard to resist. Drizzled with BBQ sauce on top, it’s like a warm hug on a plate!

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. You can prepare it in an Instant Pot or slow cooker, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a potluck with friends, this pulled beef Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: Each bite is packed with sharp cheddar cheese that melts beautifully into the macaroni.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this hearty dish—it’s the perfect comfort food!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pulled beef in advance and simply assemble when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of BBQ sauce gives it an extra zing that elevates this classic dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our pulled beef Mac and Cheese. These are all easy to find at your local grocery store and come together beautifully for a delicious meal.

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! Here are some ideas to customize your pulled beef Mac and Cheese:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you want to give your dish a spicy kick!

How to Make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef

Start by placing your trimmed boneless beef shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Adding sliced onions on top enhances the flavor as they cook down. Pour in the ginger beef broth—this adds depth to the meat. If you’re using an Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for about 60 minutes; if it’s the slow cooker, let it go on low for 6-8 hours. This step ensures your beef becomes fall-apart tender.

Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

While the beef cooks, boil water in a large pot. Add salt generously before cooking your elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. It’s important not to overcook; you want them firm since they’ll continue cooking once mixed with everything else.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking until bubbly but not browned—this thickens our cheese sauce beautifully! Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and luscious.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your beef is done, shred it using two forks right in the pot—this makes mixing easier! Now combine the cooked macaroni, pulled beef, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well coated; every bite will be bursting with flavors!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon your delicious pulled beef Mac and Cheese into bowls or serve straight from a baking dish if you prefer. Drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this heartwarming meal with family or friends—you’ve created something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect pulled beef mac and cheese is all about the details. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose Quality Beef: Using a well-marbled boneless beef shoulder ensures that your meat will be tender and flavorful after slow cooking. The fat breaks down during cooking, adding richness to your dish.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allowing the beef to cook low and slow for several hours makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. Patience here means melt-in-your-mouth goodness that’s worth the wait.

• Whisk Your Sauce Well: When mixing your cheese sauce, whisk vigorously to avoid lumps. A smooth cheese sauce creates a luxurious coating for your macaroni and beef, ensuring each bite is creamy and delightful.

• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack for added creaminess or a kick of spice. This will give your dish a unique flavor profile that keeps everyone guessing!

• Add Extra BBQ Sauce: Drizzling additional BBQ sauce on top before serving not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful presentation. It gives guests a hint of what’s to come!

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

This pulled beef mac and cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Present it in a way that showcases its comforting appeal, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a splash of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a few red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of spice to tantalize the taste buds.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a wonderful crunch alongside the creamy mac and cheese. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness!

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a crunchy contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese. Its tangy dressing helps cut through the heaviness, creating balance on your plate.

• Steamed Broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only boosts nutritional value but also adds vibrant color to your meal. The slight bitterness of broccoli pairs nicely with the creamy cheese.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots makes for a hearty side that complements the savory elements of this dish while adding more textures to your meal.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy making this delicious pulled beef mac and cheese that’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal dish to have on hand for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. You can easily prepare it in advance, store leftovers, and even freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as it will expand while freezing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, you’re welcome to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different twist.

How do I make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese without a slow cooker?

You can easily make this dish using an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Just follow the instructions for your preferred cooking method, ensuring that you achieve that tender pulled beef texture.

What can I serve with Pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

This hearty mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for an indulgent meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this pulled beef mac and cheese as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your creations with me—I love seeing how you put your own spin on recipes!