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Homemade BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni Pasta recipe photo

BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni Pasta

This BBQ Pulled Pork Macaroni Pasta is a smoky, creamy comfort dish with tender shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, and crispy turkey bacon. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce ensure no alcohol in ingredients
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of macaroni pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 4-5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with 1 cup of your favorite alcohol-free barbecue sauce. Mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the sauce.
  • Add the cooked macaroni pasta to the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Stir in the BBQ-coated chicken and mix everything well to evenly distribute flavors.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture and stir gently until the cheese melts and creates a creamy texture. Finally, fold in the crumbled cooked turkey bacon for that perfect smoky crunch.
  • If you like a bubbly, golden top, transfer your macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Baking dish (optional)

Notes

  • Ensure the barbecue sauce used is alcohol-free to maintain the recipe's intended flavor and safety.
  • Do not overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente to avoid a mushy texture when combined with sauce.
  • Cook the turkey bacon crisp before crumbling to add a satisfying texture to the dish.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute cheddar cheese with a suitable dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to maintain creaminess.