Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, then this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of rich, creamy cheese and tender pulled beef that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. The layers of flavor from the sharp cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce truly make this dish unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up this delicious meal without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness combined with savory pulled beef.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and warm it up when you’re ready to serve—perfect for busy days!
• Flavor Explosion: The sharp cheddar paired with BBQ sauce creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. They come together beautifully to create a comforting and satisfying 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, allowing you to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to kick up the heat!

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by placing your trimmed beef shoulder into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Add the sliced onions and pour in the ginger beef broth. This step is crucial because cooking low and slow allows the meat to become incredibly tender while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Cook the beef on low heat for about 5 hours in a slow cooker or about 90 minutes in an Instant Pot until it’s fall-apart tender. This long cooking time helps develop deep flavors that make the pulled beef so scrumptious!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. This will ensure your pasta has just the right texture to hold onto all that cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add warmed milk while stirring constantly until thickened. This step creates a luscious cheese sauce base! Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your pulled beef is ready, shred it using two forks and mix it with cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Fold everything together gently; this ensures every bite has that delightful combination of flavors.

Step 6: Serve with BBQ Sauce

Drizzle additional BBQ sauce on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor! This final touch makes each serving even more irresistible.

And there you have it—a hearty Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese that’s sure to be loved by everyone at your table! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect pulled beef mac and cheese is all about the details, so here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a good quality boneless beef shoulder for tender, flavorful pulled beef. The better the meat, the more delicious your final dish will be.

• Let It Cook Low and Slow: Whether you’re using a slow cooker or an instant pot, allowing the beef to cook thoroughly will result in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Aim for long cooking times to deepen the flavor.

• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and other cheeses like Monterey Jack for complexity. This enhances both creaminess and flavor in your mac and cheese.

• Add Extra Flavor with Spices: Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to your beef while it cooks. These spices can bring an extra layer of depth to your dish.

• Top with Fresh Ingredients: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Presentation matters! Serving this pulled beef mac and cheese beautifully can elevate any meal into a special occasion. Here are some ideas to make it shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Extra BBQ Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling additional BBQ sauce over the top just before serving enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread slices offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy mac and cheese, making them a perfect accompaniment.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a healthy balance and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing palate cleanser alongside indulgent flavors.

Now you’re ready to create an amazing meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this pulled beef mac and cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the mac and cheese cool completely.
• Divide into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions to help you with your cooking!

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives it a wonderful flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for added creaminess.

How do I make pulled beef for Pulled beef Mac and Cheese using an Instant Pot?

To make pulled beef in an Instant Pot, season your beef shoulder, add it to the pot with sliced onions and broth, then cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes. Let it naturally release before shredding!

Can I make Pulled beef Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions provided to enjoy it later without losing any flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this pulled beef mac and cheese! It’s a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors of tender beef and creamy cheese, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!