This Cheesy Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Skillet is the cozy comfort food you need! It’s packed with creamy cheese and tender pulled pork—all cooked in one pan. Yum!
You can have a delicious dinner ready in no time, and the best part? No endless dishes to wash! Just grab a fork and dig in—how easy is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Macaroni Pasta: I love using elbow macaroni for its classic mac & cheese feel. If you want variety, try cavatappi or shells—they’re fun shapes that hold cheese nicely!
Pulled Pork: Smoked or slow-cooked pulled pork is best for this dish. If you’re short on time, use store-bought pulled pork, or substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a great tang. While I recommend sticking to it, you can mix in some pepper jack for a spicy twist, or use a non-dairy cheese for a vegan version!
Milk: Whole milk makes the sauce creamy. If you want to lighten it, try using 2% milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, just check for unsweetened versions.
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it. Start by making a roux with butter and flour—this helps thicken the sauce. Be patient while whisking; it should bubble gently for a few minutes.
- Whisk in the warm milk gradually. This prevents lumps; stir constantly!
- Once thickened, remove from heat before adding cheese. Hot cheese will clump, so let your sauce cool slightly first.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. You can add a bit of pasta water to loosen it if needed!
Cheesy Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 3 cups cooked macaroni pasta (about 8 oz dry)
- 2 cups cooked pulled pork (preferably smoked or slow-cooked)
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Barbecue sauce, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes around 15-20 minutes of prep and cooking time, plus 25 minutes to bake. You’ll have a comforting meal on the table in about 45-50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the mac & cheese once it’s assembled.
2. Prepare the Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain well and set aside while you make the cheese sauce.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux and cook it for about 2 minutes without letting it brown. This will help thicken your sauce!
4. Whisk in the Milk:
Slowly pour the warmed milk into the roux while continuously whisking. This helps to avoid any lumps! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook until it thickens, usually about 5-7 minutes.
5. Flavoring the Sauce:
Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat and stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will add fantastic flavor to your mac & cheese!
6. Add the Cheese:
Stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese, mixing until everything is fully melted and creamy.
7. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, fold in the cooked macaroni and the pulled pork into the cheese sauce until everything is well combined and coated in that delightful cheesy goodness.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a delicious, cheesy crust.
9. Bake It Up:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Watch it closely to get that perfect crust!
10. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove from the oven and drizzle with your favorite barbecue sauce. This adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the pulled pork perfectly!
11. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!
This recipe brings together creamy cheese and tender pulled pork for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for family dinners or any gathering. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Cheesy Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Skillet
Can I Use Store-Bought Pulled Pork?
Absolutely! Store-bought pulled pork is a great time-saver. Just make sure it’s heated through before mixing it into the mac and cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can assemble the mac & cheese ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just increase the baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it looks too dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the pulled pork with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option!
