Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

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This Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pulled pork, melted cheese, and a moist cornbread crust that will have your taste buds dancing. The BBQ sauce adds a rich tang, and the hint of smokiness from the paprika makes it an irresistible savory delight.

Whether served as a hearty family dinner or a delicious dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The layers of pulled pork, cheese, and cornbread create a flavorful combination that is both satisfying and comforting. Perfect for busy nights when you want something easy to prepare yet full of flavor, it’s the ideal dish to share with friends and family.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread recipe)

  • 2 cups pulled pork (cooked and shredded)

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cornbread mix or recipe (typically 375°F or 190°C).

  2. Prepare the cornbread mix as instructed on the package, or follow your homemade cornbread recipe.

  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

  4. Add the pulled pork to the skillet, followed by the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  5. Pour half of the cornbread batter into a greased loaf pan or baking dish.

  6. Spread the pulled pork mixture evenly over the batter.

  7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pork.

  8. Cover with the remaining cornbread batter, ensuring the pork is fully covered.

  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  10. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Story Behind Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

Cornbread has long been a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, often served as a side alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or chili. It’s a simple yet flavorful bread that’s easy to make and pairs well with so many different dishes. On the other hand, pulled pork is a staple in barbecue cooking, known for its smoky flavor and tender texture. Combining these two elements into one dish is a brilliant way to take comfort food to the next level. Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread offers a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and cheesy goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is versatile enough to be served for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or looking for a filling meal after a busy day, this dish fits the bill. The combination of cornbread and pulled pork makes it hearty and filling, while the cheese adds a rich, indulgent touch. What’s even better is that you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when needed, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Make Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

Making Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is a straightforward process, but the end result is something extraordinary. You begin by preparing the cornbread, whether you use a boxed mix or a homemade recipe. Once the cornbread batter is ready, you layer it with pulled pork that’s been simmered in BBQ sauce and seasoned with spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. Topping it all off with shredded cheddar cheese before baking results in a golden, cheesy cornbread loaf with a flavorful surprise inside.

Tips for the Best Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

  1. Use Quality Pulled Pork: The quality of the pulled pork you use will greatly affect the flavor of the dish. If you have the time, slow-cook your pulled pork for the best results. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.

  2. Add Extra Flavor with Spices: While BBQ sauce is essential for flavor, don’t shy away from adding extra seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. These spices will elevate the flavor profile and add complexity to the dish.

  3. Opt for Sharp Cheddar: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice tanginess and depth of flavor to balance the sweetness of the cornbread. It also melts beautifully, creating a luscious texture in the finished dish.

  4. Bake it Just Right: The key to perfect cornbread is making sure it’s baked until golden brown. Keep an eye on it in the oven and check with a toothpick to ensure the cornbread is fully cooked. The toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of the loaf.

Variations to Try

While the classic Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is a delicious option, there are a few variations you can try to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences.

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the pulled pork for a combination of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black beans. You can still use the BBQ sauce for that smoky flavor and top it with the same cheddar cheese.

  2. Spicy Pulled Pork: If you love a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños to the pulled pork mixture. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving to give it an extra kick.

  3. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Cornbread: If you’re not a fan of pork, you can easily substitute pulled chicken for the pulled pork. The flavor of BBQ chicken pairs just as wonderfully with the cornbread and cheese.

  4. Vegan-Friendly Cornbread: If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, you can make your cornbread with non-dairy milk and a plant-based butter substitute. Replace the pulled pork with a mixture of soy curls or jackfruit to mimic the texture of meat.

Why You Should Try Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

This dish offers a little something for everyone. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy, with a satisfying texture that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, it’s guaranteed to become a crowd favorite. The beauty of Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is in its simplicity, but also in the layers of flavor that come from the pulled pork, the creamy cheese, and the moist cornbread.

Conclusion

Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. The dish combines the best of Southern comfort food with the smoky, savory goodness of pulled pork and the satisfying texture of cornbread. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and add your own personal twist to make it even more special. So the next time you’re craving something hearty and full of flavor, give Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread a try – you won’t regret it!

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