Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy, comforting goodness of mac and cheese paired with the smoky, savory flavors of pulled pork. This delightful combination has become a favorite in many households, and for good reason! The rich, cheesy sauce envelops the tender pulled pork, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly indulgent.

Originating from the Southern United States, pulled pork has a long-standing tradition in barbecue culture, while mac and cheese has roots that trace back to Europe. Together, they create a fusion that celebrates comfort food at its finest. People love pulled pork mac and cheese for its delightful texture—creamy, cheesy, and meaty all at once. It’s a dish that can easily be prepared for a family dinner or served at gatherings, making it a convenient choice for any occasion. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for the cheese sauce)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for the cheese sauce)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pulled Pork

First things first, let’s get that delicious pulled pork ready. This is the star of our dish, and it’s going to take a bit of time, but trust me, it’s worth every minute!

1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. You want to leave some fat for flavor, but too much can make the dish greasy.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This spice rub is going to give your pork a fantastic flavor.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover it evenly. Don’t be shy; get your hands in there!
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to skip.
5. Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker. Pour in half of the barbecue sauce over the pork, reserving the other half for later. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Mix in the remaining barbecue sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

Preparing the Macaroni and Cheese

While the pork is cooking, we can prepare the creamy mac and cheese. This part is super easy and oh-so-delicious!

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux that will thicken our cheese sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in the mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. This is where the magic happens!

Assembling the Dish

Now that we have our pulled pork and mac and cheese ready, it’s time to bring everything together for the ultimate comfort food experience!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread half of the mac and

Conclusion:

In summary, this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta with tender, smoky pulled pork creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a family dinner, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider topping your Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack, to customize the flavor to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese turns out and any variations you come up with. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and making it your own. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you!

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