Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this shredded beef mac and cheese recipe. Slow-cooked, tender beef blends with creamy, cheesy pasta for a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shredded Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shredded Beef: Season the beef with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Add chopped onion, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the pot and shred using two forks. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix in mustard powder and cayenne pepper.
- Combine Everything: Stir the cooked pasta and shredded beef into the cheese sauce, ensuring an even coating.
- Optional Topping: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm and creamy shredded beef mac and cheese!
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked gouda or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
- Vegetable Addition: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (for slow-cooked beef)
- Category: Main Course,comfort food
- Method: Slow Cooking,stovetop, baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: shredded beef mac and cheese, comfort food, slow-cooked beef, creamy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese