Add the Panko bread crumbs and season with salt, pepper, and granulated garlic.
Stir in the parmesan.
Use a spatula to keep the mixture moving around the pan until it all gets toasted.
Remove from the heat and set aside.
To Make the Cheese Sauce:
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly.
Whisk in the cream.
Add the nutmeg, garlic, and ground mustard.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Reserve about 2 ounces of cheese for the topping.
When the cream mixture begins to thicken add in the cheese about ¼ cup at a time, whisking well after each addition.
When the cheese is all melted into the sauce adjust seasoning.
Fold the pasta into the cheese sauce.
To Assemble the Dish:
Preheat a oven 325° F.
Spray a 9×12 baking dish with nonstick spray.
Put the prepared pulled pork in an even layer on the bottom.
Spoon the hot macaroni and cheese over the pulled pork.
Sprinkle the top with the reserved cheese. Cover with the bread crumb topping.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it sit 5 to 10 to settle.
Drizzle with bbq sauce and serve.
Notes
Storage:The mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.Reheat in a 350 degree F oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.Due to the pasta and cheese sauce, I don't recommend freezing this casserole.Things to know:Expert Tip: To make sure the pasta is cooked perfectly, use the package directions as a guide. I like to cook my pasta for 1-2 minutes less than what is recommended.
I like to use shells or cavatappi pasta for this recipe, but you can really use any type of pasta you like.
Al dente pasta works best here because it will continue to cook in the oven.
You can use store bought tangy barbecue sauce or make your own.
If you want a creamier mac and cheese, try using evaporated milk instead of regular milk.
For best flavor be sure to cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water.
Save time when making this recipe, by picking up some pulled pork from your favorite bbq joint.
For an extra creamy mac you can add a small pat of cream cheese to the sauce.