Pulled pork is a tasty and versatile meat that often leads to leftovers. You might wonder what to do with all that extra pork after a big cookout or family dinner. Don’t worry – there are many ways to use it up and create new meals your family will love.
These 20 leftover pulled pork recipes will give you plenty of ideas to transform your extras into delicious dishes. From sandwiches and tacos to pizzas and casseroles, you’ll find options for every meal of the day. These recipes are easy to make and use simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Get ready to turn your leftover pulled pork into exciting new meals that everyone will enjoy.
1. Pulled Pork Tacos
Pulled pork tacos are a tasty way to use your leftover barbecue. They’re quick and easy to make for dinner or lunch.
Start by warming up your leftover pulled pork. Place it in soft taco shells or tortillas. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, crispy fried onions, and coleslaw.
You can also try different sauces to change up the flavor. BBQ sauce, hot sauce, or even a tangy slaw dressing work well.
These tacos are perfect for busy weeknights. They’re filling and packed with flavor. Your family will love this new twist on taco night using leftovers.
2. BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza
BBQ pulled pork pizza is a tasty way to use your leftovers. Start by spreading a thin layer of BBQ sauce on your pizza crust. Mix in some simple red sauce for extra flavor.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce. Add your leftover pulled pork on top of the cheese. For extra flavor, add some sliced red onions.
Bake your pizza until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts. This dish combines the smoky flavor of BBQ with the comfort of pizza. It’s an easy meal that your family will love.
3. Pulled Pork Nachos
Pulled pork nachos are a tasty way to use up leftover barbecue. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
Top the chips with shredded cheddar cheese and bits of pulled pork. Add some black beans for extra protein and flavor.
Bake the nachos for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with green onions and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
For extra crunch, try adding crispy bacon bits. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños if you like spice.
These nachos make a great snack or casual dinner. They’re perfect for game day parties too.
4. Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Pulled pork enchiladas are a tasty way to use up leftover pulled pork. You’ll need tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese, and your leftover pork.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Warm the pulled pork in a pan with some BBQ sauce and broth. This keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
Spread some sauce in a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the warm pork mixture and roll it up. Place the rolls seam-side down in the dish.
Pour the rest of the sauce over the enchiladas. Top with shredded cheese. Bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Serve your pulled pork enchiladas hot. You can add toppings like sour cream or cilantro if you like.
5. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic way to use leftovers. Start with toasted pretzel rolls or your favorite bread. Pile on the warm pulled pork and add a smear of sharp mustard for extra flavor.
You can customize your sandwich with toppings. Try coleslaw, pickles, or sliced onions. For a Cuban-inspired version, add ham and Swiss cheese.
Don’t forget the sauce. Barbecue sauce is traditional, but you can also use mayonnaise or a spicy aioli. These sandwiches are quick to make and perfect for lunch or dinner.
6. Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie
Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie is a tasty way to use leftover pulled pork. You start by mixing the pork with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
Spread the saucy pork in a baking dish. Add a layer of frozen peas and corn on top. Then cover everything with mashed potatoes.
Sprinkle some cheese on the potatoes if you like. Bake the dish at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
This hearty meal combines the best of BBQ and comfort food. It’s easy to make and perfect for using up extra pulled pork.
7. Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Pulled pork quesadillas are a tasty way to use up leftover meat. You’ll need tortillas, cheese, and your pulled pork.
Heat a pan and lightly oil it. Place a tortilla in the pan and add cheese on one half. Top with pulled pork and fold the tortilla over.
Cook until the tortilla is golden and the cheese melts. Flip and cook the other side. For extra flavor, add some BBQ sauce or salsa verde to your pork.
You can also bake your quesadillas. Put them on a baking sheet and cook at 425°F for about 10 minutes. This method lets you make several at once.
8. Pulled Pork Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers get a tasty upgrade with leftover pulled pork. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and boiling them for 5 minutes to soften.
Place the peppers in an oven-safe dish and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Fill each pepper half with pulled pork.
Top the pork with diced tomatoes and onions for extra flavor. You can also add a creamy sauce made from blended tomatoes, cream, sugar, garlic, and basil.
Bake the stuffed peppers at 350°F until heated through. This easy meal transforms your leftover pork into a whole new dish.
9. Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Pulled pork mac and cheese is a tasty way to use up leftover pulled pork. You can make this dish by combining cooked macaroni with a creamy cheese sauce.
Mix in shredded pulled pork and some barbecue sauce for extra flavor. Top it with more cheese and bake until hot and bubbly.
For added richness, try using a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and fontina. You can also add sautéed onions or crispy bacon bits for extra texture and taste.
This comforting meal is sure to be a hit with your family. It’s quick to prepare and makes great use of your leftover pulled pork.
10. Pulled Pork Chili
Pulled pork chili is a tasty way to use your leftovers. It’s easy to make and packs a flavorful punch.
Start by heating oil in a large pot. Add your leftover pulled pork and cook until it’s warm and slightly crispy. This step adds extra texture to your chili.
Next, toss in beans, corn, and tomatoes. Add chili powder and other spices you like. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes.
You can make this in a slow cooker too. Just add all ingredients and let it cook on low for 4 hours. The result is a hearty, BBQ-flavored chili perfect for cold days.
Serve your pulled pork chili with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that transforms your leftovers into something new and exciting.
11. Pulled Pork Sliders
Pulled pork sliders are a tasty way to use up leftover barbecue. Start by warming your pork in a pan with some extra sauce.
Grab some small buns and toast them lightly. Spread mayo on both sides for extra flavor.
Pile the warm pork onto the bottom buns. You can add coleslaw or pickles for crunch. Top with the other half of the bun.
These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties or a quick lunch. You can make a bunch at once and they’re easy to eat. Serve them with chips or a side salad for a complete meal.
12. Pulled Pork Burritos
Pulled pork burritos are a tasty way to use up leftover meat. Start by warming up your leftover pulled pork in a pan. This helps crisp it up a bit.
Grab a large tortilla and add some rice, beans, and cheese. Spoon the warmed pork on top. You can also add lettuce, pico de gallo, or other toppings you like.
Roll up the burrito tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. For extra flavor, you can grill the burrito in a pan to crisp up the outside.
Serve your pulled pork burrito with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side. It’s a filling meal that’s quick and easy to make.
13. Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
Pulled pork egg rolls are a tasty way to use up leftover barbecue. You combine shredded pork with coleslaw mix and BBQ sauce for the filling.
Roll the mixture in egg roll wrappers and fry until golden brown. You can also bake them for a healthier option.
Serve these crispy rolls with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. They make great appetizers or a fun twist on dinner.
Try adding cheese or beans to change up the filling. You can customize the flavors to suit your taste.
14. Pulled Pork Salad
Pulled pork salad is a tasty way to use up leftover barbecue. You can make it quickly and easily.
Start with a bed of crunchy lettuce greens in a bowl. Add some shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
Top the greens with your leftover pulled pork. Pickles add a nice tang. You can also include sliced red onions for more flavor.
For dressing, try a mix of barbecue sauce and ranch. Or keep it simple with oil and vinegar.
Add cheese, tomatoes, or corn for more color and taste. This salad is flexible, so use what you like.
15. Pulled Pork Pasta Bake
Pulled pork pasta bake is a tasty way to use up leftover pulled pork. You’ll need pasta, pulled pork, tomato sauce, and cheese.
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Mix it with your leftover pulled pork and tomato sauce in a baking dish.
Top the mixture with shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until the cheese melts and gets bubbly.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. You can add vegetables like onions or peppers for extra nutrition and taste.
16. Pulled Pork Fried Rice
Pulled pork fried rice is a tasty way to use up leftover meat. Start by cooking rice and chilling it for at least 2 hours.
In a hot skillet, scramble eggs until almost set. Remove them and set aside. Add oil to the pan and stir-fry your pulled pork until heated through.
Toss in the chilled rice, eggs, and your choice of veggies. Soy sauce and seasonings give it extra flavor. Stir-fry everything together until hot and well-mixed.
This quick meal comes together in minutes. It’s a filling dish that transforms your leftovers into something new and exciting.
17. Pulled Pork Soup
Pulled pork soup is a tasty way to use up leftovers. You can start with a base of chicken or vegetable broth. Add your pulled pork, diced vegetables, and seasonings.
Popular choices include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. Spices like cumin, chili powder, or barbecue seasoning work well. Let the soup simmer until the veggies are tender.
For a creamier version, stir in some milk or cream near the end of cooking. Top your soup with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs before serving. This hearty meal is perfect for cold days.
18. Pulled Pork Stuffed Potatoes
You can turn leftover pulled pork into a tasty meal with stuffed potatoes. Start by baking large russet potatoes until they’re soft inside.
Cut the potatoes open and scoop out some of the inside. Mix the potato with warmed pulled pork and cheese.
Spoon this mixture back into the potato skins. Top with extra cheese if you like. Put the stuffed potatoes back in the oven to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
These stuffed potatoes make a filling meal on their own. You can add toppings like sour cream, chives, or bacon bits for extra flavor.
19. Pulled Pork Breakfast Hash
Pulled pork breakfast hash is a tasty way to use your leftover barbecue. Start by dicing potatoes and frying them until crispy. Add onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Mix in your leftover pulled pork and warm it through. Create wells in the hash and crack eggs into them. Cook until the eggs reach your desired doneness.
Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne for a kick. This hearty breakfast will fuel you for the day ahead. It’s quick to make and lets you enjoy your pulled pork in a new way.
20. Pulled Pork Flatbread
Pulled pork flatbread is a tasty way to use up your leftovers. Start with a pre-made flatbread or pizza crust. Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on top.
Add your leftover pulled pork in an even layer. Sprinkle with shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar. You can add sliced red onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
Bake the flatbread in a hot oven until the cheese melts and the edges get crispy. Cut into squares and serve as an easy lunch or dinner. You can customize this dish with your favorite toppings.
Why Pulled Pork is Ideal for Leftovers
Pulled pork is a great choice for making extra and using as leftovers. It keeps well in the fridge and can be used in many different dishes.
Versatility in Recipes
Pulled pork works in lots of recipes. You can use it in sandwiches, tacos, nachos, and more. It’s easy to add to casseroles or top baked potatoes.
For a quick meal, make pulled pork sliders. Just pile the meat on small buns with your favorite toppings. Try it in enchiladas by rolling the pork in tortillas and adding sauce and cheese.
Pulled pork also goes well with breakfast foods. Add it to omelets or breakfast burritos for a filling start to your day.
Cost-Effectiveness
Making a big batch of pulled pork saves you money. You can buy pork shoulder in bulk when it’s on sale. Cook it all at once and freeze portions for later use.
One pork roast gives you many meals. This cuts down on your grocery bills and prep time during the week. You won’t need to cook meat from scratch for every dinner.
Pulled pork freezes well too. Put meal-sized amounts in freezer bags. Then you’ll have ready-to-use meat for quick dinners any time.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Pulled Pork
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying leftover pulled pork. These techniques help keep the meat moist and tasty for later meals.
Proper Freezing Techniques
To freeze pulled pork, let it cool completely first. Divide it into small portions for easier thawing. Put each portion in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label each container with the date and contents.
For best quality, use frozen pulled pork within 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight.
Pro tip: Add some of the cooking juices or barbecue sauce before freezing. This helps keep the meat moist during reheating.
Best Methods for Reheating
The oven is a top choice for reheating pulled pork. Preheat to 250°F. Put the pork in a baking dish with some liquid. Cover with foil and heat until it reaches 165°F inside.
For a quicker option, use the stovetop. Put the pork in a pan with a splash of water or sauce. Heat on medium-low, stirring often.
The microwave works too, but be careful not to dry out the meat. Use short bursts of heat and stir between each one.
Tip: No matter which method you choose, adding a bit of liquid helps keep the pork juicy.
Different Cuisines to Explore With Leftover Pulled Pork
Leftover pulled pork can be used in many types of cuisines. You can try Mexican, Asian, and American dishes to add variety to your meals.
Mexican-Inspired Dishes
Pulled pork tacos are a quick and tasty option. Fill soft tortillas with warm pulled pork, diced onions, and cilantro. Top with lime juice and salsa for extra flavor.
Try making pulled pork enchiladas. Roll the meat in corn tortillas, cover with enchilada sauce, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Pulled pork nachos are perfect for a fun meal. Layer tortilla chips with pork, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings. Make these in the oven or air fryer for a crispy treat.
For a twist, make pulled pork tostadas. Stack crispy tostadas with pulled pork, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce. Add smoked gouda cheese for extra richness.
Asian-Inspired Dishes
Create pulled pork fried rice for a quick meal. Stir-fry leftover rice with pulled pork, eggs, peas, and carrots. Add soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.
Make pulled pork bao buns for a tasty snack. Fill steamed buns with pulled pork mixed with hoisin sauce and top with pickled vegetables.
Try pulled pork ramen bowls. Add shredded pork to hot ramen broth with noodles, soft-boiled eggs, and green onions. This makes a comforting and filling meal.
Pulled pork spring rolls are a fresh option. Wrap pulled pork with rice noodles, carrots, and cucumber in rice paper. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
American Classics
Make a pulled pork BBQ pizza. Spread BBQ sauce on pizza dough, top with pulled pork, red onions, and cheese. Bake until the crust is golden and crispy.
Try a pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich. Layer pulled pork and cheese between slices of buttered bread. Grill until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.
Pulled pork loaded potato casserole is a hearty dish. Mix mashed potatoes with pulled pork, bacon, green onions, and cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly.
For breakfast, make pulled pork hash. Fry diced potatoes with pulled pork, bell peppers, and onions. Top with a fried egg for a filling start to your day.
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