Mac and cheese is already a crowd-pleaser, but when you throw in smoky, saucy BBQ, it levels up into a dish that’s impossible to resist. This BBQ Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight with tender bites of BBQ meat, all baked to perfection with a crispy, golden topping. Whether you’re using pulled pork, brisket, or BBQ chicken, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.
Pulled Pork BBQ Mac and Cheese
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Large pot
Whisk
saucepan
Baking Dish 9x13-inch
Mixing bowls
Oven
For the Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda or smoked cheddar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the BBQ Layer
- 2 cups cooked BBQ pulled pork brisket, or chicken
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking until thickened. Stir in cheddar, gouda, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Take the sauce off the stove.
Mix the Mac and Cheese
Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
Prepare the BBQ Layer
In a bowl, mix the pulled BBQ meat with the BBQ sauce.
Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Add a layer of BBQ meat, then top with the remaining mac and cheese.
Add the Topping
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, parmesan, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle over the top.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving. Dig in and enjoy!
Pairings
- Sides: Coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Drinks: Sweet tea, a hoppy IPA, or a smoky bourbon cocktail
- Dessert: Banana pudding or peach cobbler
FAQs
1. What’s the best meat for BBQ Mac and Cheese?
Pulled pork is the go-to choice, but shredded BBQ chicken or chopped brisket also work great.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I use store-bought BBQ meat?
Absolutely! Just warm it up and mix with extra BBQ sauce for extra flavor.