It all began on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I craved comfort food that was both fun and flavorful. Scrolling through the fridge, I unearthed some leftover pineapple pulled pork that had been slow-cooked to perfection with my homemade BBQ sauce. In a moment of culinary inspiration—mixed with a touch of spontaneity—I decided to transform those delicious leftovers into something extraordinary: Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza with Bacon, Jalapeños, and Cilantro.
Imagine biting into a crispy pizza crust topped with a sweet and tangy pineapple BBQ sauce, savory pulled pork, and the delightful crunch of crumbled bacon. The unexpected kick of jalapeños perfectly complements the juicy pineapple chunks, while fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness. This crowd-pleasing creation has proven to be a hit at gatherings, and it’s easy to make in just 30 minutes!
If you’re tired of the same old fast food and looking for a fun twist on pizza night, let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure. Your taste buds are about to thank you!
Why Choose Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
Unique Flavors: This recipe infuses savory pulled pork with the sweet tang of pineapple BBQ sauce, creating a flavor explosion.
Easy to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Crispy Texture: The combination of a crispy pizza crust and crunchy bacon gives each bite a satisfying crunch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will love this unexpected twist on traditional pizza, making it ideal for gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or make a vegetarian version!
This dish is a stellar solution for anyone looking to escape the monotony of fast food. Dive into more delicious adventures with my slow cooker pineapple pulled pork for a convenient meal prep option!
Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
• Large pizza crust – Choose approximately 12-inch for the perfect balance of toppings.
For the Sauce
• Homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce – This sweet and tangy sauce adds depth to your Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza.
For the Toppings
• Slow Cooker Pineapple Pulled Pork – Make ahead for maximum flavor and convenience.
• Fresh pineapple chunks – Adds a burst of sweetness and texture to each bite.
• Bacon – Cooked until crisp and crumbled for that delightful crunch.
• Jalapeño – Very thinly-sliced for just the right kick without overwhelming the palate.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, holding all the delicious toppings together.
• Fresh cilantro – Chopped and sprinkled on top for that vibrant finish.
How to Make Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza
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Preheat your oven by positioning the rack in the center and setting it to 500°F. This high temperature ensures a crispy crust, so get ready to bask in those warm, inviting aromas!
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Spread a generous layer of Homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce over your pizza crust. Make sure to cover it evenly for a delightful tangy flavor in every bite.
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Top the sauced crust with Slow Cooker Pineapple Pulled Pork, ensuring you get a hearty amount. Then, sprinkle on the fresh pineapple chunks, crumbled bacon, sliced jalapeños, and shredded mozzarella. Each topping brings a unique flavor that works together beautifully!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to melt and create golden brown spots for that perfect, slightly bubbly finish.
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Remove the pizza carefully from the oven and give it a few minutes to cool. This step allows the cheese to set slightly, making slicing easier and more enjoyable.
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Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top of the pizza for that final touch. Slice, serve, and enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors you’ve created!
Optional: Add a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for an added layer of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
Picture a cozy dinner gathering where every bite of your delicious pizza is perfectly complemented by enticing side dishes and drinks.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: A satisfying addition, this warm, buttery classic is perfect for soaking up any leftover BBQ sauce.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Tossed with a drizzle of lime juice, it enhances the pizza’s flavors and brings out the freshness in every mouthful.
- Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, this slaw balances the richness of the pizza while adding a refreshing crunch that’s hard to resist.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory pulled pork, bringing a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Refreshing Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea is the perfect drink to wash down the bold flavors and keep everything refreshing.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this molten cake adds a touch of indulgence, melting delightfully at the center, a sweet ending to a savory meal.
With these tantalizing pairings, your pineapple pulled pork pizza night is sure to be memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza
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Room Temperature: If you’re planning to enjoy your leftovers within a few hours, keep the pizza at room temperature for up to 2 hours before storing it in the fridge.
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Fridge: Store any leftover Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven will help regain that crispy texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted. Enjoy that delicious flavor again!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizzas are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the Slow Cooker Pineapple Pulled Pork and homemade BBQ sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors. Additionally, you can chop the fresh pineapple, jalapeños, and cilantro the night before and keep them in separate containers for quick assembly. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza, simply spread the BBQ sauce on the crust, add the pulled pork and toppings, and bake for 8 to 12 minutes at 500°F. With these make ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza
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Crust Choice: Use a pre-made pizza crust or make your own from scratch for a personal touch. Either way, ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
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BBQ Sauce Balance: Don’t overload on the Homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce; too much can make the pizza soggy. A light, even coating works best!
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Pulled Pork Preparation: If using leftover pulled pork, warm it up before adding it to the pizza. This allows the flavors to re-infuse and ensures a hearty bite.
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Jalapeño Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. Removing the seeds can help tone down the heat if desired.
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Cheese Variety: While mozzarella is a classic choice, mixing in some pepper jack or cheddar can elevate the flavor profile of your Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza!
Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect slice of heaven!
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Spicy BBQ Sauce: Swap out the Homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce for a spicy version to kick up the heat and flavor.
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Grilled Pineapple: Use grilled pineapple chunks instead of fresh for a smoky sweetness that adds an exciting depth to the pizza.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace pulled pork with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit for a flavorful plant-based alternative that still delights.
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Cheese Blend: Use a blend of cheeses like tangy feta and creamy goat cheese to enhance the flavor and texture.
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Bacon Substitute: Try crispy prosciutto or turkey bacon for a lighter twist while maintaining that beloved crispy crunch.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh basil or oregano along with the cilantro for an aromatic layer that heightens the experience.
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Sweet Pepper Medley: Mix in colorful sweet bell peppers along with jalapeños for a pop of color and additional crunchy texture.
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Extra Crunch: Top the pizza with crispy fried onions for an added layer of crunch that will leave you reaching for seconds.
Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza Recipe FAQs
What kind of pizza crust is best for Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
Absolutely, you can choose between a pre-made crust or make your own! A sturdy 12-inch pizza crust works best, ensuring it can hold all those delicious toppings without getting soggy. Personally, I love the flavor of homemade dough made from simple ingredients; it adds a personal touch to your pizza!
How should I store leftover Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
To keep your pizza fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down to room temperature before sealing. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, consider freezing it instead.
Can I freeze Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
Yes! For freezing, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps it delicious up to 2 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza?
I recommend preheating your oven to 350°F and reheating like this: place the pizza directly on the rack or a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbling again—much tastier than microwaving!
How can I adjust the spice level of the jalapeño?
If you want a milder pizza, remove the seeds and inner membranes from the jalapeño before slicing, as this is where much of the heat is found. You could also use a milder pepper or omit it altogether if you prefer no spice!
Is this Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Very! This pizza can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary preferences. For allergies, ensure that none of the ingredients (especially the BBQ sauce and cheese) contain allergens. You can use dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance or swap pulled pork for a vegetarian option to make it kid-friendly!
Mouthwatering Pineapple Pulled Pork Pizza to Delight Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven by positioning the rack in the center and setting it to 500°F for a crispy crust.
- Spread a generous layer of Homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce over your pizza crust, covering it evenly.
- Top the sauced crust with Slow Cooker Pineapple Pulled Pork, fresh pineapple chunks, crumbled bacon, sliced jalapeños, and shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes until the cheese melts and has golden brown spots.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set the cheese.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top, then slice, serve, and enjoy!