Pulled Pork and Cheese Quesadilla

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pulled pork and cheese quesadillas are the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness. They offer a delicious and easy way to use leftover pulled pork, making them a great option for a quick meal. The crispy tortilla exterior contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese and tender, flavorful pork inside. Whether you’re making these for a casual dinner, game day snack, or a party appetizer, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they are highly customizable to fit your taste preferences!

Ingredients

• Pulled pork
• Flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Butter or oil for cooking
• BBQ sauce (optional)
• Sliced onions (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sour cream or guacamole for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: If using leftover pulled pork, reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. If desired, mix it with a bit of BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla. Add a generous portion of pulled pork on top of the cheese. If using, add sliced onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
4. Fold and Cook: Fold the tortilla in half, pressing it gently to seal. Transfer it to the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
5. Flip and Cook the Other Side: Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet, let it rest for a minute, then slice into wedges. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before folding the quesadilla.
• Tex-Mex Style: Include black beans, corn, and chopped bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Sweet & Smoky: Mix pulled pork with a bit of honey or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the smoky meat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2-4 quesadillas, depending on portion size

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warm and crispy. Alternatively, use an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortilla soggy.
• Freezing: Wrap assembled but uncooked quesadillas in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

How do I make pulled pork from scratch?

To make pulled pork, slow cook pork shoulder with seasonings and broth for several hours until tender, then shred with forks.

Can I use store-bought pulled pork?

Yes! Store-bought pulled pork works well, just be mindful of seasoning and sauce levels.

What’s the best cheese for quesadillas?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Oaxaca cheese are great options for a melty and flavorful quesadilla.

Can I bake quesadillas instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

How do I prevent quesadillas from becoming soggy?

Make sure the pulled pork isn’t too wet and cook them on medium heat to allow crisping.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces pair well with pulled pork quesadillas?

Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a smoky BBQ sauce all complement the flavors.

Can I add vegetables to the quesadilla?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach all work well.

What side dishes pair well with this quesadilla?

Mexican rice, black beans, coleslaw, or a fresh salad make great sides.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the quesadillas in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook them fresh for the best results.

Conclusion

Pulled pork and cheese quesadillas are a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using leftover pulled pork or making it fresh, this recipe delivers incredible flavor in every bite. With endless variations and simple cooking techniques, it’s a dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Try it today and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and savory quesadilla like never before!

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