BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Bake
Creamy mac and cheese gets a smoky twist with tender pulled pork, all topped with a golden, bubbly crust.
Total: 65 minPrep: 20 minCook: 45 min8 servingsDifficulty: Medium⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups BBQ pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- 3 In a saucepan, melt ¼ cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
- 4 Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- 5 Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until smooth.
- 6 Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Fold in BBQ pulled pork.
- 7 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 8 In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
- 9 Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- 10 Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Variations
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate broccoli florets for added veggies.
Substitutions
- Substitute BBQ pulled pork with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Pairings
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
25g fat
Carbs:
35g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
8g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade pulled pork.
- Make ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating overnight before baking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered with foil at 350°F for 30-40 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad.
- Pair with garlic bread for a hearty meal.
FAQ
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.