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.

Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac Cheese Casserole (Easy Recipe)

Name: Smoky Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 h 30 min
Total time: 9 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 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

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

3–4 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

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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