This BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a fun twist on classic pizza. Topped with flavorful pulled pork, sweet BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for any gathering!
I love how easy it is to whip up with leftover pulled pork. Just pile it high, and enjoy the cheesy goodness. Pizza night has never been so delicious! 🍕😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Crust: You can use store-bought crust for convenience, but homemade is great for that personal touch. If you’re gluten-free, look for GF pizza crust options, or try cauliflower crust for a lighter version.
Pulled Pork: Pre-cooked pulled pork is a huge time saver! If you don’t have any, shredded chicken or even beef can work, or you can make it from scratch using pork shoulder cooked low and slow.
BBQ Sauce: Your choice of BBQ sauce can change the pizza’s flavor profile. I like a sweet and smoky sauce, but feel free to use spicy or vinegar-based ones if that’s your jam!
Cheese: While mozzarella and cheddar are classics, you can try pepper jack for a kick or Gouda for a richer flavor. Mix and match cheeses to your liking!
Red Onion: If you find red onion too strong, try using green onions or shallots instead. They have a milder flavor that can still add great taste.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat level by using banana peppers or leaving them out entirely. For a milder spice, remove the seeds!
Pineapple: I love the sweetness it adds, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or swap it for diced bell peppers for some crunch.
How Do You Ensure a Crispy Pizza Base?
A crispy pizza base is essential for the perfect BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by preheating your oven properly—a hot oven is key!
- Brush the crust lightly with olive oil before adding toppings. This helps create a crispy crust.
- If using a baking sheet, consider using a pizza stone if you have one, as it retains heat better.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy. Less is often more.
Following these tips will help you make a pizza that’s crispy on the bottom and loaded with delicious flavors on top!
How to Make BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade, about 12 inches)
- 2 cups pulled pork (cooked)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is quick and fun to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling around 30 minutes to have this delicious pizza ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the pizza crust package instructions. This is usually around 425°F (220°C). Preheating is important to get that crust nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Pulled Pork:
In a bowl, take your cooked pulled pork and mix it with the BBQ sauce until all the meat is well coated. This will be the flavorful base for your pizza!
3. Prepare Your Pizza Crust:
Now it’s time to get your pizza crust ready! If you’re using a pre-made crust, simply roll it out or place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If it’s homemade, roll it out to about 12 inches in diameter.
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush the top of your pizza crust with olive oil. This helps to create a crispy, golden crust while baking!
5. Layer the Pulled Pork:
Spread the BBQ pulled pork mixture evenly over the crust. Make sure to cover the entire surface so every bite is delicious!
6. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the pulled pork layer. Cheese makes everything better, doesn’t it?
7. Top It Off:
Distribute the thinly sliced red onion, jalapeños, and pineapple chunks (if you’re using them) evenly across the pizza. The jalapeños add a spicy kick, so adjust the amount to your taste!
8. Season:
Lightly season your pizza with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance all the flavors you’ve layered on!
9. Bake the Pizza:
Put the pizza in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza, serve it hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pulled Pork?
Absolutely! Store-bought pulled pork can save you time and effort. Just make sure it’s fully heated through before mixing it with the BBQ sauce. You can reheat it on the stovetop or microwave for convenience.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Mix them together in a saucepan and simmer for about 10 minutes until blended.
How to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain the crust’s crispy texture!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute toppings based on your preferences. Some great alternatives include bell peppers, corn, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing after baking for an extra kick!
