pulled pork casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pulled pork casserole recipe
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The Best pulled pork casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite pulled pork casserole recipe, a classic comfort food dish that never fails to impress. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a regular in yours too.

The idea of a casserole is nothing new, but the combination of tender pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy macaroni and cheese is truly a match made in heaven. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make, requiring minimal prep time and effort.

My family loves it when I serve this casserole at family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The best part?

It’s also a relatively healthy option, with lean protein from the pork and whole grains from the pasta. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers – just reheat and serve!

One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it to your taste by adding different spices or toppings. My kids adore the crunchy texture from the crushed crackers on top, while I enjoy the subtle kick from the hot sauce.

This recipe has been passed down through generations of home cooks, and for good reason – it’s a crowd-pleaser every time! So go ahead, give this pulled pork casserole recipe a try – your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you.

Pulled Pork Casserole

Pulled Pork Casserole

4.7 from 1617 votes

This hearty pulled pork casserole combines tender shredded pork with a creamy sauce, pasta, and melted cheese. It is a comforting one-dish meal perfect for using leftover pulled pork.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

3 cups cooked pulled pork, shredded
8 oz elbow macaroni or similar pasta
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it sizzles.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
6Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
7Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes.
8Remove from heat and stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
9In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded pulled pork, and the prepared sauce.
10Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
11Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
14Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
9×13 inch baking dish
Whisk
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas or corn along with the pasta. You can also use leftover barbecue pulled pork for a smoky twist. If the casserole seems dry after baking, add a splash of milk before serving.

Watch Video Of How Pulled Pork Casserole Works

This pulled pork casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to reheat and serve again later. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through – about 20-25 minutes should do the trick.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pulled Pork Casserole

Q: What type of pork should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use boneless pork shoulder or butt. You can either cook it low and slow in a crock pot or braise it in liquid until it’s tender and falls apart easily.

Q: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?

Sure thing! While making your own BBQ sauce does add an extra step to the process, store-bought options are convenient and still delicious. Just be aware that some commercial sauces may contain added sugars or preservatives.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy during cooking?

To prevent overcooking, make sure to al dente cook your pasta according to package instructions before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Q: Can I substitute chicken broth for water in the recipe?

Absolutely! Using chicken broth will add an extra layer of flavor to your casserole. You can also experiment with different broth flavors like beef or vegetable broth for a unique twist.

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