Oh, boy! If you’re in the mood for some serious comfort food that makes your heart sing, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you: **Shredded Beef Mac & Cheese**. This dish is a twist on the classic mac and cheese, loaded with tender, savory shredded beef and a creamy cheese sauce that’ll have you going back for seconds (and maybe thirds).
I first stumbled upon this gem during a cold winter evening when all I wanted was something warm and filling. I threw together some leftover shredded beef, and after that first heavenly bite, I knew I had struck gold! One bite, and just like a warm hug, it wraps around you, bringing a smile to your face and a twinkle to your tummy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory waiting to happen.
So, let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen with this cozy dish!
What’s in Shredded Beef Mac & Cheese?
To create this deliciousness, here’s the scoop on the ingredients:
Elbow Macaroni: These small pasta shapes are just perfect for holding onto that gooey cheese sauce. It’s a mac and cheese classic!
Shredded Beef: I love using leftover shredded beef from a roast or making a quick slow-cooked batch. It’s super tender and adds a meaty richness to the dish.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is the star of the show! I usually go for sharp cheddar because it gives that extra punch of flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds a dreamy creaminess to the cheese sauce, making each bite even richer!
Milk: To create the velvety cheese sauce, I usually use whole milk, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
Butter: Because everything is better with butter! It helps to make our roux, which thickens the cheese sauce beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the secret weapon for thickening; it helps create the roux that will give us a luscious sauce.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor. It adds a nice savory taste without overpowering the cheese.
Onion Powder: Just a sprinkle adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning; they help enhance all the other flavors.
Paprika: This is optional, but I love the additional warmth and color it brings!
Fresh Parsley or Chives: For that final touch of freshness; it makes everything look pretty too!
Hot Sauce or BBQ Sauce: These are optional for serving, but if you want to spice things up, go for it!
Is Shredded Beef Mac & Cheese Good for You?
Now, I know this dish is a bit indulgent, but hey, life is all about balance, right?
Pasta provides a good energy source from carbohydrates, making it a filling option. Just watch your portion sizes if you’re being mindful.
Shredded Beef packs in protein, which is perfect for muscle repair and keeping you full longer. It’s a great way to use up leftover beef, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Cheeses like cheddar and cream cheese are sources of calcium, which is essential for strong bones, though they can be high in fat, so moderation is key!
Feel free to pair this dish with a side of steamed veggies to bring in some fiber and balance out the richness. Your body will thank you for it!
Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 pound shredded beef (cooked)
– 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream cheese
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
– Hot sauce or BBQ sauce (for serving, optional)
*This recipe serves about 4-6 hungry souls!*
How to Make Shredded Beef Mac & Cheese?
1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, drain, and set aside. We want them al dente since they will cook a bit more later!
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s all melty and bubbly, stir in the flour. Cook this roux for about 1-2 minutes until it gets a light golden color.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken – about 4-5 minutes should do the trick!
4. Time to add some flavor! Toss in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and (if you’re feeling adventurous) paprika. Stir until combined.
5. Lower the heat and add the cream cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melty and incorporated – we want a smooth sauce here!
6. Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and makes it gloriously creamy.
7. Fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded beef, making sure every piece is coated in that cheesy goodness.
8. Let everything cook together over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
9. Remove from heat and serve hot. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color, and don’t forget hot sauce or BBQ sauce on the side if you’re feeling spicy!
Cheesy Tips & Twists!
Here’s where you can get creative. Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for a boost of veggies. You can also play around with different cheeses – bring in some mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
If you’re short on time, use a rotisserie chicken or even leftover pulled pork instead of the beef – totally adaptable!
And if you really want to impress, you could even pop it in a casserole dish, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown!
Let me tell you, this dish is a crowd-pleaser! So, give it a shot and let me know how your version turns out. I cannot wait to hear about your cheesy adventures in the kitchen!
