Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese -

If you're searching for a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food, look no further than Cheesy Pulled Pork Paradise. This enticing recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of pulled pork with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply indulging your cravings. Imagine tender, slow-cooked pork, lovingly shredded and enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, all topped with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs. It's a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart.

Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Pulled Pork Paradise! This delicious dish combines tender, slow-cooked pulled pork with creamy mac and cheese, all topped with a crunchy layer of panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is easy to follow, featuring step-by-step instructions and expert tips to ensure perfection every time. Get ready to warm hearts and satisfy cravings with this mouthwatering delight that’s sure to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork:

3 lbs pork shoulder or butt

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)

For the Mac and Cheese:

1 lb elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups milk (whole or 2%)

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

1 cup aged white cheddar cheese, grated

1 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added flavor)

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Pulled Pork:

- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).

- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the pork in a roasting pan with a lid or cover tightly with aluminum foil. Roast for 4-5 hours, or until it shreds easily with a fork.

- Once done, remove from the oven, let it rest for 15 minutes, then shred the pork using two forks. Mix with the BBQ sauce and set aside.

Cook the Pasta:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, creating a roux.

- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

- Remove from heat, and add the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and white cheddar cheeses. Stir until completely melted and smooth.

- Stir in the mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and pulled pork mixture. Mix well until everything is coated in cheesy goodness.

Assemble the Dish:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese for a crunchy topping.

Bake:

- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your cheesy pulled pork paradise!

Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 6 hours | Servings: 6-8