Craving a mouthwatering combination of savory pulled pork and tangy BBQ sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese? You're in the right place! This BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful way to use up leftover pulled pork. Keep reading to learn how to make the ultimate BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

What is BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza?

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a fusion of two beloved comfort foods: classic pizza and rich, flavorful pulled pork. This unique combination brings together the smoky, sweet taste of BBQ sauce with the tenderness of pulled pork, all layered on a crispy pizza crust. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a casual dinner, game day, or any gathering with friends and family. If you’re a fan of BBQ and pizza, this recipe is a match made in culinary heaven.

Ingredients List for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

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

Pizza Crust: You can use either a pre-made pizza crust from the dairy case or make your own homemade pizza crust. If you’re opting for homemade, it’s worth checking out our favorite pizza crust recipe, which you can find in the notes below.
Pulled Pork: About 1 ½ cups of pulled pork. If you have leftover pulled pork from the day before, like from our slow cooker pulled pork recipe, it’s perfect for this pizza.
BBQ Sauce: ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. The sauce adds that quintessential tangy and smoky flavor to the pizza.
Mushrooms: 16 ounces of sliced mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the savory pulled pork beautifully.
Onion: 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped. The onion adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that balances the richness of the pulled pork.
Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, pressed. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pizza.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the mushrooms, onions, and garlic.
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts beautifully over the pizza, creating a gooey and delicious topping.

Substitutions and Variations

This BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza recipe is quite versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

Pizza Crust: If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pizza crust. Cauliflower crust is also a great low-carb option.
Pulled Pork: No pulled pork? No problem! You can use shredded chicken, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
BBQ Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce, go for a honey-based one. For a spicier kick, use a BBQ sauce with a bit of heat.
Mushrooms: Not a fan of mushrooms? You can skip them or replace them with bell peppers, spinach, or even pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
Cheddar Cheese: You can swap out cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or even a smoky provolone for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating the perfect BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza involves several steps, but don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a pizza that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Crust

Pre-made Crust: If you’re using a pre-made pizza crust, take it out of the packaging and set it aside. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the package.
Homemade Crust: If you’re making your own crust, roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet, and pre-bake it for about 5-7 minutes at 450°F (230°C) until it’s just starting to firm up. This step ensures a crispy crust that holds up to the toppings.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions. Sauté them until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the pressed garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the vegetables aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
Distribute the pulled pork evenly over the sauce.
Add the sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic over the pulled pork.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

Place the assembled pizza back in the oven and bake at 450°F (230°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Keep an eye on the pizza to avoid burning, especially around the edges.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two.
Slice it up, serve, and enjoy your mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza!

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

If you’re looking for a more detailed guide to cooking BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of each part of the process to ensure you achieve the best results.

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it’s preheating to get it nice and hot.
Prepare the Dough: Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for an even thickness to ensure consistent cooking. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
Precook the Crust: To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake it for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. This step is crucial for a perfectly crispy base.
Sauté the Toppings: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté your mushrooms and onions until softened. Add garlic for the last minute to avoid burning. This step intensifies the flavors, making the toppings more flavorful and delicious.
Assemble the Pizza: Spread the BBQ sauce on the pre-baked crust, then layer on the pulled pork, sautéed vegetables, and cheese. Make sure the toppings are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite.
Bake: Place the pizza in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Depending on your oven, this could take 10-12 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. This brief cooling period helps the toppings set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your pizza turns out perfect every time:

Overloading Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, too many can make the pizza soggy and difficult to cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
Skipping the Pre-Bake: Not pre-baking the crust can lead to a soggy bottom. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect pizza crunch.
Using Cold Pulled Pork: Cold pulled pork can bring down the temperature of the pizza, leading to uneven cooking. Make sure your pulled pork is at room temperature before adding it to the pizza.
Not Sautéing Vegetables: Adding raw vegetables directly to the pizza can result in them being undercooked. Sautéing them first brings out their natural sweetness and ensures they are cooked through.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A delicious pizza deserves to be presented beautifully. Here’s how you can serve and present your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza to impress your guests:

Slice with Style: Use a pizza cutter to slice the pizza into even pieces. For a more rustic look, you can also use a large knife and cut it into squares or wedges.
Add a Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top of the pizza for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with a Side Salad: Pair your pizza with a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the pulled pork and cheese.

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas:

Casual Dinner: Serve the pizza hot out of the oven with cold beverages. It’s perfect for a laid-back dinner with family or friends.
Party Platter: Cut the pizza into small squares and serve it as part of a party platter with other appetizers. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Leftover Lunch: BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza makes great leftovers! Pack it in a lunchbox for an easy and delicious meal the next day.

Presentation Ideas for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

Make your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza stand out with these presentation ideas:

Wooden Pizza Board: Serve the pizza on a wooden pizza board for a rustic, pizzeria-style presentation.
Cast Iron Skillet: Bake and serve the pizza in a cast iron skillet for a dramatic and rustic presentation.
Garnish with BBQ Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce over the top of the pizza just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza Recipe Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is the best it can be:

Use Quality BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is a key flavor component, so choose one you really love. A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best.
Don’t Overcook the Pizza: Keep a close eye on the pizza in the last few minutes of baking. The cheese should be melted and bubbly but not burnt.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is great, mixing in some mozzarella can give you that perfect blend of gooey and sharp flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of pulled pork?
A: Absolutely! Shredded chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian alternative like jackfruit can work well.

Q: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake the pizza just before serving to ensure the crust stays crispy.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza?
A: Reheat the pizza in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crispiness of the crust.

Q: Can I freeze BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza. Just wrap it tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With the smoky pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheddar cheese all atop a crispy crust, it’s a pizza experience like no other. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and get ready to enjoy the best BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza you’ve ever had. Happy cooking!