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Pulled beef Mac and Cheese

Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese

Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that takes traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level. This dish features tender, savory pulled beef simmered in zesty BBQ sauce, mixed with creamy elbow macaroni and rich cheddar cheese. The unique twist of ginger beer adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates this meal, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or game day celebrations. With its hearty texture and mouthwatering taste, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 24 minute
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder
  • 1 large yellow onion
  • 1 (12 ounce) can ginger beer
  • 1–2 cups BBQ sauce
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pulled Beef: Layer sliced onions in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Add trimmed beef shoulder, pour over ginger beer and BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours in slow cooker; cook on high pressure for 60 minutes in Instant Pot.
  2. Cook Elbow Macaroni: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, then macaroni. Cook until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add warmed milk, stirring until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
  4. Combine: Shred cooked beef and mix with juices. In a bowl, combine macaroni, pulled beef mixture, and cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  5. Serve: Transfer to serving dishes; drizzle with BBQ sauce and garnish with parsley.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker) or 60 minutes (Instant Pot)
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking/Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 590
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 860mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For added flavor, mix different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Customize by adding vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.