Imagine the comforting hug of creamy mac and cheese intertwined with the deep, smoky richness of pulled pork. This Smoky & Cheesy Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese brings together two classic favorites into one unforgettable casserole.
What makes it special is the slow‑cooked pork shoulder, seasoned with smoked paprika and chipotle, that falls apart in a velvety, cheese‑laden sauce. The sauce blends sharp cheddar, smoky gouda, and a touch of cream cheese for extra silkiness.
This dish is perfect for busy families, game‑day gatherings, or a cozy weekend dinner. Kids love the cheesy pull‑apart texture while adults appreciate the subtle heat and smoky depth.
The process is straightforward: tenderize the pork, cook the pasta al dente, whip up a three‑cheese sauce, then combine everything and bake until golden and bubbling. The result is a hearty, crowd‑pleasing masterpiece.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Smoky Depth: Chipotle and smoked paprika infuse the pork with a gentle heat that balances the richness of the cheese, creating a layered flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
One‑Dish Wonder: All components—protein, pasta, sauce—cook together, reducing cleanup and delivering a complete meal in a single casserole dish.
Kid‑Friendly Comfort: The creamy cheese base masks the subtle spice, making it appealing to younger palates while still satisfying adult cravings.
Make‑Ahead Friendly: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when needed—ideal for busy weeknights or potluck planning.
Ingredients
The backbone of this dish is a tender pork shoulder that absorbs a smoky, slightly sweet rub before being shredded. A classic elbow‑macaroni provides the perfect bite, while a trio of cheeses creates a luxurious sauce. Finishing touches of breadcrumbs and fresh herbs add texture and brightness, turning a simple casserole into a restaurant‑quality entrée.
Pulled Pork
- 2 lb pork shoulder (bone‑in or boneless)
- 2 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- Salt for the pasta water
Cheese Sauce
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 Tbsp all‑purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- ½ tsp mustard powder
Seasonings & Toppings
- ¼ tsp smoked sea salt (optional)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 Tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Each component plays a purpose: the smoked rub builds a deep, aromatic base for the pork, while the cheese blend balances sharpness with smokiness. The roux (butter + flour) thickens the sauce without clumping, and the cream cheese adds a luxurious mouthfeel. Finally, the breadcrumb topping creates a golden crust that contrasts the creamy interior, making every bite texturally satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pulled Pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry, then rub it generously with smoked paprika, chipotle, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes; this helps the spices adhere and promotes even cooking. Transfer the seasoned pork to a slow cooker, add a splash of water or broth, and cook on low for 6‑8 hours until it falls apart easily.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 1‑2 minutes less than the package directions (al dente). Drain and rinse briefly under warm water to keep the noodles from sticking together. Set aside while you finish the sauce.
Making the Cheesy Sauce
- Create a roux. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 2‑3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, eliminating any raw flour taste.
- Add dairy. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; it will begin to thicken after 4‑5 minutes.
- Incorporate cheeses. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, cream cheese, and mustard powder. Continue stirring until every cheese is melted and the sauce is glossy. Season with a pinch of smoked sea salt if desired.
Assembling & Baking
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded pork, cooked macaroni, and cheese sauce; toss until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish. For the topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20‑25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Low‑and‑slow pork. Cooking the shoulder on low heat preserves moisture and allows the smoke‑spice rub to permeate every fiber, resulting in tender, pull‑apart meat.
Al dente pasta. Slightly undercook the macaroni; it will finish cooking in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.
Gradual cheese melting. Adding cheese off the heat avoids curdling and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
Rest before serving. A brief rest lets the sauce thicken slightly and the juices redistribute, making each forkful cohesive.
Flavor Enhancements
Finish the casserole with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for bright acidity, or stir in a tablespoon of chipotle adobo sauce for an extra smoky kick. A handful of grated Parmesan mixed into the breadcrumb topping adds a deeper umami note and extra crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over‑baking; once the top is golden, the interior is already perfectly creamy. Also, don’t skip the butter‑flour roux—skipping it leads to a watery sauce that won’t cling to the pasta or pork.
Pro Tips
Use a cast‑iron skillet. Searing the pork briefly before slow cooking adds a caramelized crust that deepens flavor.
Season the sauce. Taste the cheese sauce before mixing; a dash of hot sauce or smoked salt can elevate the overall profile.
Blend cheeses. Grating the cheddar and gouda yourself ensures a smoother melt compared to pre‑shredded varieties that contain anti‑caking agents.
Make ahead. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; bake when ready for a stress‑free dinner.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Replace pork shoulder with a brisket for an even richer flavor, or swap in shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version. For the pasta, try cavatappi or shells to capture more sauce. If you prefer a milder heat, substitute chipotle with smoked paprika alone, and use mozzarella in place of gouda for a sweeter melt.
Dietary Adjustments
For a gluten‑free casserole, use gluten‑free elbow macaroni and ensure the flour in the roux is a gluten‑free blend. To make it dairy‑free, swap butter for olive oil, use dairy‑free cream cheese, and replace cheddar and gouda with sharp vegan cheese shreds. A low‑carb version can be assembled with cauliflower “rice” instead of pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with a simple coleslaw dressed in apple cider vinegar for crunch and acidity. A crisp green salad with a honey‑mustard vinaigrette balances the richness. For a heartier spread, serve alongside baked beans or cornbread, making it a perfect comfort‑food centerpiece for gatherings.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer keeping, freeze sealed containers for up to 3 months; wrap the dish in a layer of plastic wrap before adding the lid to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15‑20 minutes until the interior is hot and the topping regains its crunch. For a quicker option, microwave on medium power for 2‑3 minutes, stirring halfway and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Smoky & Cheesy Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese brings together the best of comfort food—rich, creamy cheese, tender smoked pork, and a satisfying crunchy topping. With clear, step‑by‑step guidance, storage tips, and plenty of variations, you can adapt it to any taste or dietary need. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spice levels; the dish is forgiving and rewards creativity. Gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy every hearty, smoky bite!
