Best Bbq Pulled Pork Pizza Recipe

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a mouthwatering combination that brings together the smoky, tender goodness of pulled pork with the cheesy, crispy perfection of pizza. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or any time you want to indulge in something deliciously different. With a tangy barbecue sauce base, tender pulled pork, and melty cheese, this pizza packs a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. Ready to make the best BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza? Let’s dive into the recipe!

What is BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza?

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a creative and flavorful pizza variation that uses barbecue sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce and is topped with shredded pulled pork, cheese, and other complementary toppings. The smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of the pulled pork pair perfectly with the tangy barbecue sauce and the gooey melted cheese, creating a pizza that’s rich, hearty, and absolutely delicious. This pizza is great for those who love barbecue and want to enjoy it in a new, fun way.

Ingredients List for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

To make this delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Pizza Dough: 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
2. Pulled Pork: 1 to 1 ½ cups (leftover or freshly made, see below for a quick pulled pork recipe)
3. Barbecue Sauce: ½ cup (your favorite brand or homemade)
4. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups (shredded)
5. Smoked Gouda Cheese: ½ cup (shredded, optional for extra flavor)
6. Red Onion: ½ medium (thinly sliced)
7. Cilantro: A handful (fresh, chopped, for garnish)
8. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for brushing the dough)
9. Salt and Pepper: To taste (for seasoning the pork)
10. Optional Toppings: Pickled jalapeños, pineapple chunks, or green onions for added flavor and texture.

Quick Pulled Pork Recipe

If you don’t have leftover pulled pork on hand, here’s a quick recipe to make your own:

• Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: 1-2 pounds
• Barbecue Sauce: 1 cup
• Chicken Broth: ½ cup
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions:

1. Season the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Pork: In a slow cooker, add the seasoned pork, barbecue sauce, and chicken broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
3. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker and toss it with the remaining sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your taste. Here are some substitutions and variations:

• Cheese Alternatives: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Smoked gouda adds a great depth of flavor, but you can also use provolone for a milder taste.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based pulled pork substitute, vegan cheese, and dairy-free barbecue sauce.
• Spicy Version: Add pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Fruit Toppings: Add pineapple chunks or apple slices for a sweet contrast to the smoky and savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. This helps achieve a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, about ¼ inch. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the surface of the rolled-out dough with olive oil. This helps create a golden, crispy crust.
   • Spread the Barbecue Sauce: Spread an even layer of barbecue sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Add the Pulled Pork: Evenly distribute the shredded pulled pork over the sauce.
   • Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and smoked gouda (if using) evenly over the pulled pork.
   • Top with Onions: Scatter the thinly sliced red onions on top of the cheese.
4. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the pizza with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Slice and serve immediately, perhaps with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Cook BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

For the best BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza, follow these detailed steps:

1. Rolling Out the Dough: If the dough is too elastic and snaps back, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten before continuing to roll it out. Aim for an even thickness to ensure the pizza cooks uniformly.
2. Layering the Toppings: Spread the barbecue sauce evenly and avoid overloading the pizza with too much pulled pork or cheese. This ensures the crust bakes evenly and doesn’t become soggy.
3. Baking: A high oven temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. Monitor the pizza closely after the 10-minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza turns out perfectly:

• Overloading with Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, too much can prevent the crust from cooking evenly. Stick to moderate amounts for the best results.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Too much barbecue sauce can make the pizza soggy. A thin, even layer is all you need to bring out the flavors.
• Skipping the Oven Preheat: A well-preheated oven (and pizza stone, if using) is essential for achieving a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step!
• Overcooking the Pork: If using fresh pulled pork, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry. Moist, tender pork is key to a delicious pizza.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Elevate your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza with these serving and presentation tips:

• Slice and Serve: Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large chef’s knife to slice the pizza into even pieces. This ensures each slice holds its toppings well.
• Garnish with Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the barbecue sauce.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve the pizza with a side of extra barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Casual Dinner: Serve larger slices as a main course with a simple side salad or coleslaw.
• Game Day Snack: Cut the pizza into smaller squares for an easy-to-eat snack during a game day or casual gathering.
• Family Meal: Place the pizza in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves, making it a fun and interactive meal.

Presentation Ideas for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

Enhance the appeal of your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza with these presentation ideas:

• Drizzle of Extra Sauce: Drizzle some additional barbecue sauce in a zigzag pattern over the top of the pizza just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Toppings on the Side: Serve additional toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or extra cheese on the side so everyone can customize their slices.
• Wooden Serving Board: Present the pizza on a large wooden cutting board for a rustic, inviting look that’s perfect for sharing.

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a success:

• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh pulled pork, quality cheese, and a good barbecue sauce will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Prepare Toppings in Advance: Cook the pork and slice the onions ahead of time to make assembly quicker and easier.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add or swap ingredients to make the pizza your own. Consider adding pickled onions, roasted garlic, or a drizzle of honey for extra depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought pulled pork?

Yes, store-bought pulled pork works well for this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the pizza.

2. Can I make BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza on the grill?

Absolutely! You can grill the pizza directly on the grill grates for a smoky flavor. Just be sure to preheat the grill and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.

3. Can I freeze BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, cook it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. What type of barbecue sauce is best?

The best barbecue sauce is one that you enjoy the most! A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce pairs well with the other ingredients. You can use store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce, depending on your preference.

5. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, use just a thin layer of barbecue sauce, and preheat your oven (or pizza stone) to ensure the crust cooks quickly and evenly.

Conclusion

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of smoky pulled pork, tangy barbecue sauce, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, this pizza offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or just because you’re craving something different, this recipe provides all the steps and tips you need to create a mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza. So, fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this sweet and savory pizza sensation!

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