Pulled beef Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ve landed in the right place! This Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese is a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It combines the heartiness of pulled beef with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese, making it an instant favorite. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your time with loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want to treat your family to something delicious after a long day, this dish has got you covered. The rich flavors blend perfectly, making it a comforting go-to meal that everyone will adore!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce gives every bite an unforgettable taste.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and uncomplicated ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for any home cook.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy goodness topped with tender pulled beef.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- Versatile Servings: Great for dinner parties or feeding a crowd—this recipe serves six generous portions!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese. These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that everyone will be talking about!
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
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:
- Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli before baking for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Spice it up: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you like your mac and cheese with a kick!
- Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
How to Make Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Beef
Begin by seasoning your trimmed boneless beef shoulder. Place it in your slow cooker or Instant Pot along with sliced onions and ginger beef broth. Cooking low and slow allows the beef to become tender and full of flavor. If using an Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for about 60 minutes. If using a slow cooker, let it simmer on low for around 5–6 hours until it’s fork-tender.
Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
While your beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse—this helps preserve the starch that will help thicken your cheese sauce later.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux; cook until bubbly but not browned—about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warmed whole milk until smooth, stirring constantly until thickened. Finally, stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once your beef is done cooking, shred it using two forks right in the pot, mixing it with any remaining juice. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pulled beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake Your Dish
Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. For added flavor, drizzle with BBQ sauce on top before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese that’s sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Pro Tips for Making Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese
Making pulled beef mac and cheese is a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure it’s a hit every time!
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Choose the right cut of beef: Using boneless beef shoulder ensures a tender result. This cut has enough fat to keep the meat juicy throughout the slow cooking process.
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Don’t rush the cooking time: Slow cooking the beef for several hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
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Mix your cheeses: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, mixing in some mozzarella or gouda can add creaminess and depth of flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses can make your dish even more delicious.
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Add some heat: If you enjoy a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to your sauce or mixing in some diced jalapeños with the pulled beef. This can elevate your mac and cheese to a whole new level.
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Save some sauce for drizzling: Setting aside a bit of BBQ sauce before mixing it into the pasta will allow you to drizzle it on top just before serving, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
How to Serve Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese
This pulled beef mac and cheese is not only comforting but also visually appealing when served right. Here are some fun ideas to make your dish shine at the table!
Garnishes
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Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
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Crispy fried onions: Sprinkling crispy fried onions on top provides a delightful crunch and an added layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.
Side Dishes
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Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, making it a comforting addition to this hearty meal.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, helping to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!
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Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob can be a splendid side that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors, adding a touch of summer to your dining experience.
With these serving suggestions, your pulled beef mac and cheese will not only taste incredible but also look inviting on any dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This pulled beef mac and cheese is not just a delight to eat but also an excellent meal prep option. You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it later without losing any of its deliciousness.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Let the pulled beef mac and cheese cool completely.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making pulled beef mac and cheese.
Can I use different types of cheese in pulled beef mac and cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings a wonderful flavor, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for added creaminess and taste.
How can I make pulled beef mac and cheese healthier?
To make this dish lighter, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add some sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition!
What is the best way to cook the beef for pulled beef mac and cheese?
Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot produces tender, flavorful results. Both methods allow the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meat juicy.
Can I prepare pulled beef mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this pulled beef mac and cheese! It’s a special dish that combines comfort food with unforgettable flavors. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese
If you’re in search of a heartwarming dish that combines comfort with flavor, look no further than this Pulled Beef Mac and Cheese. This recipe marries tender pulled beef with creamy macaroni and sharp cheddar cheese, creating an unforgettable meal that will delight family and friends alike. Ideal for busy weeknights or gathering with loved ones, the dish is easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion. With rich flavors and a cheesy topping, this mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 pounds boneless beef shoulder
- 1 large yellow onion
- 1 can ginger beef broth
- 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
Instructions
- Season the trimmed boneless beef shoulder and place it in a slow cooker with sliced onions and ginger beef broth. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high pressure for 60 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add warmed milk until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Shred cooked beef in the pot, combine with macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, drizzle with BBQ sauce, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg