Name: BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough.; 1/2 cup pizza sauce.; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce.; 2 cups mozzarella cheese.; 1 cup pulled pork.; 1 small red onion.; Fresh parsley or cilantro.

A close-up of a barbecue pizza topped with shredded meat, red onions, and green herbs on a wooden surface. | recipesbyclare.com

Let me share a recipe that transformed our leftover pulled pork into something magical. This BBQ pulled pork pizza has become our Friday night tradition combining that smoky tender pork with gooey cheese and tangy sauce on a perfect crust. Every time I make it the kitchen fills with incredible aromas that bring everyone running.

What Makes It Special

What I love about this pizza is how it turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. That combination of sweet barbecue sauce savory pork and melty cheese creates magic. Plus it's such a clever way to give leftover pulled pork new life.

Everything You Need

Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade for your crust base.
Pizza sauce: Adds a subtle tomato base to balance the barbecue sauce.
Barbecue sauce: Choose a sweet and tangy variety or your favorite brand.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures a gooey, melty topping.
Pulled pork: Leftovers work perfectly, or prepare fresh for this recipe.
Red onions: Thinly sliced for a pop of color and flavor.
Fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds brightness and freshness to the final dish.

Let's Make Pizza

Getting Started: I always start by cranking up the oven with my pizza stone inside. Getting that stone nice and hot is key for a crispy crust.
Building layers: Then comes the fun part layering those sauces cheese and that beautiful pulled pork. I love watching it all come together.
The Magic Moment: When it hits that hot stone the transformation begins. The cheese melts the edges get crispy and everything melds into pure deliciousness.

Mix It Up

Some nights I'll swap in chicken when we're out of pork or add different cheeses. My kids love when I add pineapple for a sweet twist. That's the beauty of pizza you can make it your own.

A close-up of a barbecued pulled pork pizza topped with shredded meat, red onions, and green herbs, with a bottle of barbecue sauce in the background. | recipesbyclare.com

Keeping It Fresh

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they store beautifully. I like to reheat slices in a skillet it keeps the crust crispy and the toppings perfectly melty.

Pizza Party Time

This has become our go-to recipe for casual entertaining. I'll set up a little topping station and let everyone build their own. It's such a fun way to get everyone involved in dinner.

Crust Secrets

Here's what I've learned about getting that perfect crust: preheating is crucial and don't overload your toppings. A thinner layer cooks more evenly and stays crispier.

Perfect Pairs

We love serving this with a simple coleslaw the creamy crunch perfectly balances the rich pizza. Add a cold beer or iced tea and dinner is complete.

Grilled Version

In summer I love making this on the grill. That extra smoky flavor takes it to a whole new level. Just keep an eye on the temperature and you'll get the most amazing charred crust.

A close-up view of a pizza topped with shredded meat, purple onions, and green herbs on a parchment-lined surface. | recipesbyclare.com

Fun Size Fun

Making mini versions is perfect for parties or when the kids want to help. Everyone gets their own little pizza to top just how they like it.

Quick and Easy

On busy nights I'll use store-bought dough and pre-shredded cheese. It still tastes amazing and comes together in no time. Sometimes those shortcuts are lifesavers.

Cheese Adventures

While mozzarella is classic I love experimenting with cheese blends. A little sharp cheddar or smoky gouda adds such interesting flavor.

Veggie Additions

Sometimes I'll add colorful bell peppers or mushrooms. They need to be sliced thin and I usually give them a quick sauté first. It adds such nice texture and flavor.

Sauce it Up

That final drizzle of sauce makes all the difference. I love adding a swirl of ranch or spicy mayo. It's those little touches that make it feel special.

A close-up view of a pizza topped with pulled pork, barbecue sauce, red onions, and garnished with herbs. | recipesbyclare.com

Prep Ahead Magic

I often prep extra ingredients when making pulled pork just for these pizzas. Having everything ready makes weeknight dinners so much easier.

Everyone Can Enjoy

For my gluten-free friends I use cauliflower crust or their favorite GF pizza base. Just check those sauce labels and everyone can enjoy pizza night.

Spice it Up

When we want some heat I'll add jalapeños or a spicy barbecue sauce. My husband loves it with extra crushed red pepper flakes.

Sweet Meets Savory

The sweet and savory combination in this pizza is incredible. Sometimes I'll add caramelized onions or a honey drizzle to enhance those flavors even more.

Make Extra, Save Time

I always make extra to freeze. Individual slices wrapped well freeze beautifully. Just pop them in the oven when you need a quick meal.

A close-up of a slice of pizza topped with shredded meat and herbs on a plate, with a glass in the background. | recipesbyclare.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use a pizza stone?: Pizza stone helps create crispy bottom crust. A sheet pan works too but may need longer cooking time.
→ Can I use different cheese?: Mozzarella works best for melting but can mix with other cheeses like cheddar for extra flavor.
→ What if I don't have pulled pork?: Can use other cooked meats like shredded chicken or brisket. Just ensure meat is well-sauced.
→ Why two different sauces?: Pizza sauce and BBQ sauce combine for perfect balance of flavors. Extra BBQ sauce on top adds final punch.

Conclusion

A delicious and easy BBQ pulled pork pizza that transforms leftover meat into a gourmet meal. Perfect for a quick dinner with maximum flavor.

BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza