Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole Recipe

Get ready for a culinary adventure that combines two comfort foods in a new way. My Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole is a mix of tender pulled pork and creamy mac & cheese. It’s all elevated with a bourbon BBQ twist that will excite your taste buds.

I found this amazing recipe while looking at new comfort food ideas. It blends smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. This dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table, great for any occasion.

This Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole is more than just a meal. It’s an experience that brings together the best of American comfort food. Every bite offers a perfect mix of rich pulled pork, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of bourbon-infused BBQ.

Key Takeaways

  • Ultimate comfort food combining pulled pork and mac & cheese
  • Bourbon BBQ sauce adds depth and complexity to the dish
  • Versatile recipe suitable for multiple occasions
  • Easy to prepare with accessible ingredients
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers
Pinterest-style Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac Cheese Casserole recipe photo showing melted cheese and bourbon BBQ pulled pork
Save this Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole recipe for your next comfort food craving

Introduction to Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole

My smoked pulled pork pasta bake is more than a recipe. It’s a journey that mixes Southern comfort with gourmet flair. This maple glazed pork casserole brings together amazing flavors, turning your dinner into a feast for the senses.

My Inspiration Behind This Dish

Growing up in the South, I was surrounded by amazing barbecue and comfort foods. The idea for this casserole came to me at a family reunion. I saw my grandmother mix pulled pork with her famous mac and cheese. I wanted to make a dish that brought back those flavors but with a twist.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Slow-cooked pulled pork
  • Creamy macaroni and cheese base
  • High-quality maple syrup
  • Aged bourbon
  • Smoky BBQ sauce

Every ingredient is key to this dish’s rich taste. Maple syrup adds a sweet touch, and bourbon brings depth and richness.

Perfect Occasions for Serving

This maple glazed pork casserole is great for many occasions. It’s perfect for:

  1. Weekend family dinners
  2. Potluck gatherings
  3. Game day celebrations
  4. Casual dinner parties

It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy dinner. This casserole will wow and satisfy everyone.

Step-by-Step Preparation of the Casserole

Making the cheesy bourbon pulled pork casserole is all about careful steps. I’ll guide you through each part of making this tasty smoked meat pasta dish. It’s sure to wow your dinner guests.

Cooking the Pulled Pork

The base of our casserole is tender, flavorful pulled pork. I find that a slow cooker works best for tenderness and flavor. Here’s how I do it:

  • Select a high-quality pork shoulder (3-4 pounds)
  • Rub generously with brown sugar and spice blend
  • Pour bourbon and maple syrup over the meat
  • Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours until meat falls apart easily

Making the Mac & Cheese Sauce

A creamy sauce makes this casserole stand out. I mix sharp cheddar and smoked gouda for a rich flavor:

  1. Melt butter in a heavy saucepan
  2. Whisk in flour to create a roux
  3. Gradually add milk and cheese
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of bourbon

Combining Ingredients

Layering is key to spreading flavors evenly. I stack the ingredients to ensure every bite is full of smoky, cheesy taste:

LayerIngredients
BottomCooked macaroni
MiddlePulled pork
TopCheese sauce and breadcrumbs

Baking and Serving Tips

To get the perfect finish, bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor!

Vertical Pinterest image of Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac Cheese Casserole with visible cheese pull and bourbon BBQ glaze
This Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole will be your new favorite comfort food recipe

Tips and Variations for Customization

Creating the perfect comfort food mac and cheese is all about making it your own. My maple bourbon BBQ casserole is perfect for those who enjoy trying new flavors and ingredients.

Adding crispy toppings like panko breadcrumbs or crushed pretzel chips can make a big difference. They add a nice crunch to your mac and cheese. If you love cheese, try adding smoked gouda or sharp white cheddar for extra flavor.

Getting the spice right is key to pleasing everyone. If you prefer milder flavors, use less cayenne pepper and a mild BBQ sauce. For those who like it spicy, add chipotle powder or jalapeños. This recipe is great because it can be adjusted to fit any taste.

Preparing the casserole ahead of time is easy. You can put it together up to 24 hours before, then refrigerate it. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free meal with all the rich flavors of your maple bourbon BBQ dish.

FAQ

What makes this Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole unique?

This casserole mixes the smoky taste of pulled pork with creamy mac & cheese. It adds maple syrup’s sweetness and bourbon’s depth. It’s a new take on comfort foods, blending rich flavors for a satisfying dish.

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?

It takes about 3-4 hours to make, mostly for slow-cooking the pork. The final steps of assembly and baking take 45-60 minutes. It’s perfect for weekends or special events.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the pork and mac & cheese base ahead. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it and refrigerate. It reheats well, great for meal prep.

How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Adjust the spice by choosing a mild or spicy BBQ sauce. Add black pepper or cayenne for heat. For less spice, use a sweeter BBQ sauce and reduce spicy seasonings.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a green salad, roasted veggies, or tangy coleslaw. For a full meal, add pickles, cornbread, or a tangy side to balance the richness.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Yes, use smoked jackfruit or roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Use vegetarian BBQ sauce and adjust cooking times.

What type of bourbon works best in this recipe?

Use a medium-bodied bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace. They add flavor without overpowering. The bourbon’s sweetness complements the maple syrup and BBQ sauce.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat covered in foil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. This keeps the mac & cheese creamy.

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Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac Cheese Casserole with golden cheese topping and tender pulled pork layers

Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole Recipe


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  • Author: Chef Crenn
  • Total Time: 9 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Ultimate comfort food combining tender slow-cooked pulled pork with creamy mac and cheese, elevated with smoky bourbon BBQ flavors and a hint of maple sweetness.


Ingredients

Scale

34 pounds pork shoulder

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon spice blend (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder)

1/4 cup bourbon

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 pound elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons butter

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded

1/2 cup smoky BBQ sauce

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Fresh chives for garnish


Instructions

1. Rub pork shoulder generously with brown sugar and spice blend

2. Pour bourbon and maple syrup over the seasoned meat

3. Place in slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours until meat falls apart easily

4. Shred the cooked pork and mix with BBQ sauce

5. Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain and set aside

6. In a heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat

7. Whisk in flour to create a smooth roux, cook for 2 minutes

8. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps

9. Add cheeses and stir until melted and smooth

10. Season cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and a splash of bourbon

11. Layer cooked macaroni in bottom of greased 9×13 baking dish

12. Spread pulled pork evenly over macaroni

13. Pour cheese sauce over everything and top with breadcrumbs

14. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling

15. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving, garnish with fresh chives

Notes

For best results, prepare the pulled pork a day ahead to allow flavors to develop

Casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated

Adjust spice level by choosing mild or spicy BBQ sauce

Leftovers keep in refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat well

For a vegetarian version, substitute smoked jackfruit for pulled pork

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
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