Have some leftover pulled pork on hand? Well, we’re here to help you use it up. These leftover pulled pork ideas will give you dinner for days!
If you’re making pulled pork, or ordering it for a meal, it’s always the smart woman’s move to have extra. Not only does it freeze nicely, but you can turn it into a whole lot of tasty extra dishes after the first go-round.
I’ve included five simple recipes plus one truly unique show stopper to entice you to try something new. Whether you’re reusing Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork, classic Crock Pot Pulled Pork, or BBQ Pulled Pork, you’ll find plenty of ideas below.
Quick Tip
The big take away from this is that pulled pork is really rich and heady, so it should always have something tart to go with it. Vinegar, lemon and hot sauces all add that extra perk you’re looking for.
Pulled Pork Sando
Assuming sandwiches aren’t what you were using that luscious pork for in the first place, try making a Japanese-inspired sando. Quick pickle some sliced cabbage, shredded carrots and thinly sliced cucumbers in enough seasoned rice wine vinegar just to moisten. Add a dash of sesame oil and salt and set aside. Toast some buns and slather with mayo (I like Kewpie brand). Pile the buns high with warm pork and the drained slaw and serve.
Hearty Mac and Cheese
Start by adding your favorite mac and cheese recipe to a casserole dish and stir in the pulled pork. Top with bacon bits and buttered bread crumbs. Bake until warm and the topping is golden. Serve with a nice green salad tossed with a bright and acidic dressing to cut the richness.
Polenta and Pulled Pork
Heat up the pulled pork with some sliced roasted red peppers, red onion, and a glug of your go-to pasta sauce. Season with some additional garlic powder and dried oregano. Meanwhile, pan sear a few slices of your favorite ready-to-eat polenta. When that’s warmed through, serve with the pulled pork and a side of Southern Green Beans or sautéed zucchini.
Leftover Pulled Pork Tacos
You knew that was coming. Pulled pork tacos are the stuff of dreams. All you have to do is warm up some small corn tortillas and the pork, then let your family go to town. Have small bowls of pico de gallo, crumbled cotija cheese (or feta), chopped cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, minced chile peppers, hot sauce (I like Tapatio here), and some fluffy rice so everyone can have a custom bite.
Puff Pastry Bites
Unfold two defrosted puff pastry sheets and cut into 18 squares. Add a rounded tablespoon of the pulled pork. Fold the opposite corners of each square to create a triangle and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Poke a fork into the top to create steam ventilation. In a small bowl whisk together egg and water to create an egg wash. Then brush each pastry with the egg wash. Bake at 400ºF on a parchment lined baking sheet for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with a drizzle of hot honey.
Charcuterie Board Pulled Pork Spread
OK, this one is loosely based on the idea of French country pate or even potted meat. It’s easy and rustic and if you put it in a little dish and add it to your charcuterie board with some crackers, your guests are sure to devour it. Cook some small chopped onion and with salt and pepper in butter. Add a splash of sherry, wine or cognac if you have any on hand, then cool. Meanwhile, mince the pulled pork and add some roughly chopped toasted nuts. Stir together with a splash of heavy cream and the cooked onion. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Pack into a ramekin and chill until ready to serve.
A Few More Leftover Pulled Pork Ideas
These are all great starting points, but don’t hesitate to incorporate pulled pork into lots of other things like a soup, stew, enchiladas, sheet pan nachos, or a scrumptious BBQ pizza topping. The possibilities are endless.
