This Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza is the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. The tender pulled pork combines beautifully with the gooey mozzarella and creamy goat cheese, while the hint of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant finish.
Ideal for pizza nights or entertaining guests, this recipe elevates your classic pizza game. Quick to prepare with the help of pre-made ingredients, it’s a dish that brings bold BBQ flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering, this pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe:
- 1 (1 lb.) prepared pizza dough ball (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 of a (20 oz.) package Farm Rich Smokehouse Pulled Pork BBQ
- 1/4 cup bottled sweet-and-spicy BBQ sauce
- 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 oz. goat cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Additional 1-2 tablespoons sweet-and-spicy BBQ sauce (for drizzling)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet or pizza stone with non-stick cooking spray.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a 16-inch circle. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the dough to create a thin layer.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Layer the pulled pork BBQ, red onion slices, and goat cheese chunks across the pizza. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
- Let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: ~320 kcal per slice (depending on portion size) | Servings: 8 slices
The Ultimate Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza: A Flavor Explosion
If you’re a pizza lover looking for something that breaks away from the norm, the Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza is a game-changer. This recipe combines the smoky, tender goodness of pulled pork with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce, a hint of spice, and the creaminess of mozzarella and goat cheese. Whether it’s for a family pizza night, a casual gathering with friends, or simply indulging yourself in bold, irresistible flavors, this pizza has it all.
Why Choose BBQ Pulled Pork for Pizza?
Barbecue flavors have long been a favorite when it comes to comfort food, and incorporating them into a pizza elevates the experience. The robust flavor profile of pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection, pairs beautifully with the rich tang of BBQ sauce. The addition of cheese and the unique texture of thinly sliced red onions bring layers of taste and texture that make this pizza anything but ordinary.
The ease of using prepared pulled pork, like Farm Rich Smokehouse Pulled Pork BBQ, means you can enjoy all the deep, smoky flavors without the long cooking times typically associated with BBQ dishes. It’s a brilliant shortcut for those who want a gourmet pizza experience without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Perfect Harmony of Sweet and Spicy
The beauty of this pizza lies in its balance. The sweet BBQ sauce blends with a touch of spice to create a lively flavor contrast that awakens your taste buds. The creaminess of goat cheese tones down the boldness, while mozzarella provides the classic gooey, melty texture that defines a great pizza. Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brings a burst of freshness, tying all the elements together for a complete, satisfying bite.
Versatility for Any Occasion
This Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza is perfect for all kinds of events. Hosting a casual dinner party? Impress your guests with a pizza that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Looking for an easy weeknight dinner? With its simple preparation and short cooking time, this recipe fits the bill. It’s also a fantastic option for game nights, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve something unique yet universally loved.
Customization Tips for the Perfect Pizza
One of the great things about this recipe is how adaptable it is to your preferences. Here are some ideas to customize your pizza:
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and goat cheese are a winning combination, feel free to experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra depth.
- Heat Levels: If you’re a spice lover, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy hot sauce before baking. For a milder flavor, stick to sweet BBQ sauce and skip any additional heat.
- Herb Variations: Fresh cilantro adds a bright finish, but if it’s not your favorite, substitute with parsley or a sprinkle of chives.
- Toppings Galore: Add your favorite toppings to make the pizza your own. Jalapeños, roasted corn, or bell peppers can complement the BBQ flavors wonderfully.
- Alternative Doughs: For those seeking healthier options, this pizza works well with whole wheat, cauliflower, or gluten-free crusts.
The Joy of Making Pizza at Home
Making pizza at home is not only fun but also rewarding. You get to control every ingredient, ensuring freshness and quality. Plus, the process of assembling a pizza—from spreading the sauce to layering the toppings—is a delightful activity that can be shared with family or friends. Unlike takeout, homemade pizza allows you to customize flavors to suit your exact cravings.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Crust
Achieving a great crust is the foundation of any good pizza. For this recipe, rolling the dough to an even thickness and baking at a high temperature (450°F) ensures a golden, crispy base that holds up well under the weight of the toppings. If you have a pizza stone, use it to achieve a restaurant-quality crust with a chewy interior and a crisp outer layer. Remember to let the dough rest before rolling it out to make it easier to handle and avoid overworking it, which can make the crust tough.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
While there are countless pizza recipes out there, the Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a combination of smokiness, sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of spice, making it a memorable dish. Moreover, the use of pre-made pulled pork BBQ and prepared dough ensures that it’s not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
Healthier Tweaks for Conscious Eaters
If you’re looking to lighten up this pizza without compromising on flavor, here are a few ideas:
- Use a thinner layer of cheese or opt for low-fat versions.
- Swap traditional dough for a cauliflower or zucchini crust.
- Add more veggies, such as spinach or arugula, to boost the nutritional value.
- Choose a BBQ sauce with lower sugar content or make your own for a healthier alternative.
The Ideal Pizza for Sharing
There’s something inherently social about pizza. It’s made to be shared, whether it’s among family members on a cozy weeknight or with friends during a lively gathering. This recipe, with its bold and exciting flavors, is sure to be the star of any spread. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal, or cut it into smaller slices for an irresistible appetizer.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this pizza with beverages that complement its flavors. A crisp, cold beer, like a pale ale or lager, enhances the BBQ notes, while a glass of fruity red wine, such as Zinfandel or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the richness of the pulled pork. For non-alcoholic options, try a fizzy soda, a refreshing iced tea, or sparkling water with a splash of lime.
A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Pizza has universal appeal, and this recipe takes it up a notch with its unique flavor profile. The combination of sweet, smoky, spicy, and creamy elements ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a dish that sparks conversation and keeps people coming back for more.
Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Making Again and Again
The Sweet-&-Spicy Pulled Pork BBQ Pizza is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Its harmonious blend of flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating your family to a special dinner, or simply indulging in your love for pizza, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
The best part? It’s endlessly adaptable to your preferences, ensuring you’ll never get bored of making it. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a pizza that’s sure to become a household favorite!