
Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Imagine a plate of mac and cheese that has been through a smoky Southern adventure. You start with a pork shoulder that's been rubbed with brown sugar, paprika, and a whisper of cayenne, then slow-roasted until it surrenders into tender, juicy strands. That's the heart of this dish. You fold that glorious pulled pork into a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and a hint of smoked gouda, then toss it all with al dente macaroni. Every spoonful is a harmony of creamy, tangy, smoky, and rich—like a BBQ joint and a comfort food haven had a beautiful, delicious baby. This is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
- pork shoulder1.5 kg
- brown sugar2 tbsp
- smoked paprika1 tbsp
- garlic powder1 tsp
- onion powder1 tsp
- cayenne pepper1/2 tsp
- salt1 tsp
- black pepper1/2 tsp
- BBQ sauce1 cup
- chicken broth1 cup
- elbow macaroni500g
- butter4 tbsp
- all-purpose flour1/4 cup
- whole milk3 cups
- sharp cheddar cheese, shredded3 cups
- smoked gouda cheese, shredded1 cup
- cream cheese, softened4 oz
- green onions, sliced1/2 cup
Nutrition
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- 2
Place the pork in a Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot. Pour chicken broth around it, cover with a lid, and roast for 3 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- 3
Remove pork from pot, let rest for 15 minutes, then shred using two forks. Toss the shredded pork with 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce and set aside.
- 4
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- 5
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly, until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, and cream cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- 7
Preheat broiler. Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, the remaining 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, and half of the sliced green onions. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the pulled pork and remaining green onions. Broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top. Serve hot.
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