Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 pound pulled pork
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for heating pulled pork
- Large saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Baking dish for baking mac and cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat pulled pork over medium heat. Add BBQ sauce and stir until pork is coated. Set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns light brown.
5. Gradually whisk in whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until mixture thickens.
6. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add cooked elbow macaroni and pulled pork to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
8. Pour mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown and mac and cheese is heated through.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 1150mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pulled pork can be substituted with shredded chicken or beef.
- BBQ sauce can be substituted with any other type of sauce, such as buffalo or teriyaki.
- Whole milk can be substituted with any type of milk, such as almond or soy milk.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Top with crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality BBQ sauce for maximum flavor.
- For a creamier mac and cheese, add more cheese to the sauce.
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat mac and cheese in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
- Crumbled bacon
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the mac and cheese is too dry, add more milk to the cheese sauce.
- If the mac and cheese is too soupy, add more cheese to the sauce.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food History:
- Mac and cheese originated in Italy in the 14th century and was brought to America by Thomas Jefferson in the late 18th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and tangy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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