Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings comfort to any table, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is just what you need. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe combines the heartiness of pulled beef with the nostalgic delight of macaroni and cheese, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. The slow-cooked beef melts in your mouth, while the sharp cheddar cheese offers that cheesy goodness we all crave. Plus, it’s easy to make in either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot—who doesn’t love options?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your kitchen fills with delicious aromas.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love mac and cheese! The pulled beef adds protein without overwhelming flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and reheat for a quick dinner solution on those busy days.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce and sharp cheddar creates a taste sensation that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and sure to please everyone at the table. Gather these up, and let’s get cooking!

For the 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

The beauty of Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

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

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by placing your trimmed boneless beef shoulder into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Layer the sliced onions on top, then pour in the ginger beef broth. This step is essential as it creates a flavorful base for our pulled beef. Cook it low and slow until it’s tender—about 5 hours on low in a slow cooker or about 60 minutes in an Instant Pot.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Cooking it separately helps ensure it’s just right when combined with our creamy cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking until golden brown—this adds richness to our cheese sauce! Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth; this step ensures no lumps form. Once combined, stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine It All

Once your pulled beef is ready, shred it using two forks. Mix the pasta with the pulled beef and cheese sauce together in one large pot. This step allows every noodle to be coated with cheesy goodness! If you like extra BBQ flavor, now’s the time to drizzle more sauce over everything.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls, adding even more BBQ sauce if desired. Serve this delightful Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese warm—everyone will love digging into this hearty meal!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Making pulled beef mac and cheese is a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right beef: Opting for a well-marbled boneless beef shoulder will result in tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for pulled beef. The fat helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.

• Don’t rush the cooking time: Slow cooking the beef allows it to absorb all those delicious flavors from the broth and BBQ sauce. Patience is key—this results in perfectly shredded beef that melts in your mouth.

• Use warmed milk: Warming the milk before adding it to your cheese sauce helps it blend more smoothly with the butter and flour mixture. This prevents clumping and ensures a creamy consistency.

• Mix cheeses for depth of flavor: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, consider blending in some mozzarella or gouda for added creaminess and complexity. This will make your mac and cheese even more indulgent!

• Add extra BBQ sauce on top: Drizzling additional BBQ sauce over your finished dish not only adds a burst of flavor but also creates an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress.

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Serving pulled beef mac and cheese is an opportunity to get creative! Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, there are plenty of fun ways to present this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Crushed potato chips: For an unexpected crunch, sprinkle some crushed potato chips on top just before serving. They add texture and an enjoyable salty bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that complements the richness of mac and cheese beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, bring some healthy greens to your plate while enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with pulled beef mac and cheese, providing a delightful balance between savory and sweet.

With these tips and serving ideas in mind, your pulled beef mac and cheese will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pulled beef mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it reheat beautifully, but it also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store and save your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed all the way through, about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful dish.

Can I use a different kind of cheese in pulled beef Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings a wonderful flavor, you can mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.

How do I make pulled beef Mac and Cheese in an Instant Pot?

To make pulled beef Mac and Cheese in an Instant Pot, follow the same steps for preparing your pulled beef but use the sauté function. After cooking, mix in your cooked macaroni and cheese sauce directly within the pot for a quick one-pot meal!

Can I use leftover pulled beef for this dish?

Yes! Leftover pulled beef works perfectly in this recipe. Just fold it into your macaroni and cheese mixture for a quick and hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this pulled beef mac and cheese as comforting and satisfying as I do! This recipe is not just about filling your belly; it’s about bringing friends and family together over a warm, cheesy dish that warms your heart. Enjoy making it, savoring every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your results with me. Happy cooking!