### Hashtags:
1. #ComfortFoodCravings
2. #PulledPorkMacNCheese
3. #SmokyDelights
4. #CrispyOnionsTopping
5. #CheesyGoodness
6. #HomemadeDeluxe
7. #SoulFoodFusion
### Description:
Imagine the comfort of creamy mac & cheese fused with the smoky richness of pulled pork, crowned with a layer of golden, crispy onions for an irresistible contrast of textures. This Smoky Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese with Crispy Onions is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender, flavorful pork, enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, mixed with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished off with crispy onions, it’s a dish that promises to satisfy your comfort food cravings with its sumptuous layers of flavors and textures. Perfect for family dinners or to impress at your next potluck, this dish is a heartwarming meld of classic comfort and gourmet flair.
### Ingredients:
#### For the Pulled Pork:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
#### For the Mac & Cheese:
– 1 lb elbow macaroni
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 3 cups milk
– 1 tablespoon mustard powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
#### For the Crispy Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Oil for frying
### Directions:
1. **Prepare the Pulled Pork:** In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the pork shoulder. Place the pork in a slow cooker. Add apple cider vinegar, water, and garlic. Cook on low for 8 hours until tender. Shred the pork using two forks and set aside.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Add mustard powder and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. **Combine Mac & Cheese with Pulled Pork:** Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, then gently stir in the shredded pulled pork until well combined.
5. **Prepare the Crispy Onions:** Soak the thinly sliced onions in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix flour, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Dredge the buttermilk-soaked onions in the flour mixture and fry until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. **Assemble the Dish:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac & cheese and pulled pork mixture into a large baking dish. Spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Top the baked mac & cheese with the crispy onions just before serving. Enjoy your soul-warming dish!
This hearty dish seamlessly blends rich and tender pulled pork with creamy, cheesy macaroni and finishes with a satisfying crunch from the crispy onions, making every bite a delightful experience.