Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese

Growing up, macaroni and cheese was more than just dinner—it was a weekly tradition. Every Thursday, my grandmother would pull out her well-loved Dutch oven, the one with the tiny chip on the handle, and begin whisking a rich, velvety cheese sauce while the pasta bubbled away. But what made her mac and cheese legendary was the addition of tender, slow-cooked shredded beef. It wasn’t just food; it was a warm hug on a plate, a dish that carried stories of family gatherings, cold winter nights, and the comfort of a familiar meal shared around the table.

Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese brings together the creamy, indulgent texture of traditional mac and cheese with the deep, savory flavors of perfectly cooked beef. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into a celebration, perfect for chilly evenings when all you want is something warm, filling, and made with love. This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about memories, heritage, and the universal magic of comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the pairing of shredded beef and macaroni and cheese. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

• Incredibly Satisfying: Hearty shredded beef folded into creamy cheese sauce and pasta makes for a filling, stick-to-your-ribs meal.
• Family Favorite: Both kids and adults will love the rich, cheesy flavor with the surprise of tender beef in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: It’s just as perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner as it is for serving a crowd at a potluck or family gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepped in advance and reheated without losing its creamy texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
• 2 cups shredded beef, warmed
• ¾ cup beef broth or shredded beef juices, warmed
• ½ large white onion, finely diced
• 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden color. This roux is the foundation of a silky cheese sauce, and I always think of my grandmother saying, “Don’t rush it—good sauce needs patience.”
2. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Once all the milk is incorporated, continue cooking and whisking for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. I love watching the sauce transform at this stage—smooth, creamy, and full of promise.
3. Season the Sauce: Stir in the kosher salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. These spices round out the cheese flavor, adding just enough depth without overpowering.
4. Melt the Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, turning it velvety and rich.

1. Combine with Pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni in a large bowl. Stir gently to ensure each noodle is coated. This moment—when the noodles get enveloped in creamy sauce—was always my favorite as a child, sneaking a spoonful before dinner was served.
2. Layer with Shredded Beef: Transfer the mac and cheese to a large serving dish or baking dish. Spoon the warm shredded beef on top, drizzling the warmed beef juices or broth over the meat to keep everything moist and flavorful.
3. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the finely diced onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro over the top. Serve immediately, either with the beef layered on top or mixed in for every bite to be filled with cheesy, beefy goodness.

Helpful Tips

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents. Grating your own makes a noticeable difference.
• Control the Spice: Jalapeños and cayenne add a gentle heat, but feel free to omit or adjust based on your spice preference.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully—store in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Comfort Food
• Diet: Halal-friendly

Notes

• You can use leftover shredded lamb in place of beef for a different flavor twist.
• For a baked version, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approx. 486 kcal per serving
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fat: 26g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese?
A: Yes! Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: Absolutely. Add more jalapeño, a pinch of chili flakes, or an extra dash of cayenne for extra heat.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese, be sure to check out:

• Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese
• Homemade Hamburger Helper (Cheeseburger Style)
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Conclusion

This Shredded Beef Macaroni and Cheese is more than a meal—it’s a story of warmth, family, and tradition. Every bite is packed with creamy cheese, tender beef, and a touch of spice that makes it uniquely comforting. Whether you’re sharing it around the dinner table or saving leftovers for tomorrow, it’s a dish that invites everyone to slow down and savor the moment.

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