Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking, preventing uneven cooking.

Cook the Macaroni:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Do not overcook. Al dente macaroni holds its shape and texture in the casserole, ensuring a consistent texture.
• Drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Make the Roux:

• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
• Keep whisking for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This ensures the roux cooks properly and thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy base.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

• Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Keep stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. This creates a smooth, creamy sauce, ensuring a consistent texture.
• Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a well-balanced taste.

Add the Cheese:

• Remove the pot from the heat and fold in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. This creates the cheesy base of the mac and cheese, ensuring a rich and flavorful component.

Combine Macaroni and Pulled Pork:

• Add the cooked macaroni and the pulled pork to the pot.
• Mix everything together until the macaroni and pulled pork are well coated with the cheese sauce. This ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Assemble the Casserole:

• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This creates a golden, bubbly top, enhancing the visual appeal and providing a melty, cheesy topping.

Bake the Mac & Cheese:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
• Ensure the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through, preventing undercooking and ensuring a safe and enjoyable meal.

Garnish and Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish, if desired. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor, enhancing the visual appeal and providing a refreshing note.
• Serve warm.