Description
Looking for the best BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe? This easy, quick, and simple dinner idea is loaded with smoky pork and creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort food. It is a healthy twist on classic mac with bold flavors and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, game days, and holiday gatherings. Save this homemade favorite for cozy nights or whenever you need the best hearty meal idea everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups cooked pulled pork
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 16 oz elbow macaroni until al dente about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a deep skillet melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup diced red onion and cook 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup all purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly pour in 3 cups whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer 4 to 5 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir in 3 cups pulled pork mixed with 1 cup barbecue sauce. Combine thoroughly so everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and extra cheddar if desired. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped green onions.
Notes
- Shred cheese fresh for smoother melting.
- Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushy texture.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
- Use leftover or store bought pulled pork for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg