If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is your answer! It combines the rich flavors of tender, slow-cooked beef with creamy, gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. Every bite is a hug in a bowl, making it a favorite at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

This recipe is not just about comfort; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty meal to enjoy on a busy night, this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese fits the bill!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and savory pulled beef creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this dish is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or big family meals.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the creamy texture and delightful flavors, ensuring clean plates all around!
Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies everything we love about comfort food—rich, satisfying, and downright delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese! These are simple items that you probably already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.

Swap the protein: Instead of beef, try using shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutritional boost and color.
Change up the cheese: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.
Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to give your mac and cheese a kick!

How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by placing the trimmed beef shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Add in the sliced onions and pour over the ginger beef broth. Cooking low and slow helps break down the meat fibers, resulting in tender, flavorful pulled beef. If using an Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for about 60 minutes. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours until fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your beef is cooking away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add in your elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse—this helps the cheese sauce stick better!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in flour until it forms a paste—this is called a roux! Gradually add warmed milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into creamy goodness. This cheesy base will elevate your dish!

Step 4: Combine Everything

When your pulled beef is ready, shred it with two forks directly in the pot. Now add your cooked macaroni into the pot along with BBQ sauce (to taste). Fold everything together gently so that every piece gets coated in deliciousness.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Transfer your pulled beef mac and cheese into bowls or a serving dish. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top for added flavor! Enjoy this hearty meal with friends or family—it’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Creating a delicious pulled beef mac and cheese is easier than you think, and these tips will help you perfect the dish!

Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for boneless beef shoulder or chuck roast for tender, flavorful meat that shreds beautifully after slow cooking.
Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the beef to cook low and slow enhances its flavor and tenderness. Patience pays off with melt-in-your-mouth results!
Mix cheeses for added depth: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, consider blending it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Adjust BBQ sauce to taste: Start with a moderate amount of BBQ sauce during cooking, adding more later as needed. This lets you control the sweetness and tanginess to suit your preference.
Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made in advance! Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious.

How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

When it comes to presenting your pulled beef mac and cheese, a little creativity goes a long way! Here are some ideas to make your meal extra special.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up this hearty dish.
Crushed tortilla chips: For a delightful crunch, top your mac and cheese with crushed tortilla chips, giving it an extra layer of texture.
Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and beef.

Side Dishes

Steamed broccoli: A classic choice, steamed broccoli offers a vibrant green contrast and adds nutritional value while balancing out the richness of the mac and cheese.
Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra BBQ sauce left on your plate, making every bite enjoyable.
Mixed greens salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory flavors in your pulled beef mac and cheese, creating a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is an excellent choice for meal prep! Its rich flavors only get better with time, making it perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat this comforting dish:

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The dish will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
Ensure the mac and cheese is cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Consider adding a small amount of extra BBQ sauce before freezing to maintain moisture.

Reheating

Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Stir in a splash of milk if it seems dry during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while preparing your Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese!

Can I use other types of cheese in my Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for a different taste. Just ensure it’s meltable.

How long does Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 345 minutes, including prep and slow cooking. This makes it ideal for a weekend dinner or when you have time to let the flavors meld.

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

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Follow the storage instructions above for the best results.

What can I serve with Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple garden salad or steamed vegetables. You can also offer some crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort on even the busiest days. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so don’t hesitate to add your personal touch. Happy cooking, friends!