Get Your Fork Ready: BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Potatoes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a baked potato loaded with all your favorite toppings. And when you add tender, flavorful pulled pork to the mix, you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving. This recipe combines the classic comfort of a baked potato with the smoky, savory goodness of pulled pork, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Baked Potatoes

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 pounds pre-made pulled pork or store-bought
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
• BBQ sauce (optional)
• 4 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup Sour cream
• 2 Sliced green onions or chives
• 6 strips of bacon (optional) – cooked and chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Pork

Check our complete guide for pulled pork with different methods (A BBQ Lover’s Dream: Easy Pulled Pork Recipe for Juicy, Flavorful Results Every Time)

Step 2: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (204°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes: Scrub them clean, pat dry, and prick each potato several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
3. Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the inside is fork-tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

1. Cook the Bacon (if using): Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then crumble it into small pieces.
2. Shred the Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, so it’s worth the extra step.
3. Chop the Green Onions: Thinly slice the green onions for a fresh, slightly pungent garnish.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

• Shred and mix the pulled pork with BBQ sauce in a large bowl.
• Once the potatoes are baked, Slice each potato lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
• Scoop out the flesh without cracking the skins and transfer it to a large bowl.
• Mash the potato flesh with 4 tablespoons butter, shredded cheese mix, bacon bits (optional), 1 teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, green onions, and 1/2 cup sour cream until thoroughly combined.
• Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins without overloading them leaving space for the pulled pork.
• Return them to the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
• Add the pulled pork into the potatoes, drizzle more BBQ sauce, garnish with more shredded cheese mix and return them back to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
• Finally, remove and garnish with more bacon bits and green onions.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~550 (varies depending on toppings and portion size)
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~20g

Video

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Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes with Pulled Pork

1. Choose the right potato: Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking due to their high starch content, which creates a fluffy interior.
2. Don’t overcook: Overcooked potatoes can become dry and mealy.
3. Crispy Skin Secret: Don’t skip the olive oil and salt. These ensure a golden, crispy skin that’s irresistible.
4. Wrap in foil: Wrapping the potatoes in foil during baking helps them cook evenly and retain moisture.
5. Make It Crispy: For crispy potato version, bake the potatoes directly on a wire rack.
6. Save Time with Pre-Made Pulled Pork: If you’re short on time, store-bought pulled pork can be a lifesaver. Just reheat and season it to your liking.
7. Double the Recipe: Pulled pork freezes well, so make a larger batch and save the extra for future meals.
8. Try switching: BBQ sauce or chipotle sauce, or top the dish with avocado slices for a fresh twist. Feeling adventurous? Swap the baked potatoes for sweet potatoes for a unique flavor combination.
9. Let them rest: Allow the potatoes to rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting them open. This will help the steam escape and prevent the potatoes from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Coleslaw: Its tangy crunch complements the smoky pork.
• Cornbread: Adds a touch of sweetness to the meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: A lighter option that balances the richness.

Baked Potato Variations

One of the joys of a baked potato is the limitless topping options. Here are other some classic and creative ideas:

• Butter & Salt: The simplicity of butter and a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the potato’s natural flavors.
• Cheddar Cheese & Bacon: Melted cheddar cheese with crispy bacon bits creates a hearty, satisfying topping.
• Broccoli and Cheddar: For a healthier twist, stir in some steamed broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese. The vibrant green and cheesy goodness will make these potatoes disappear in no time.
• Greek Yogurt & Fresh Herbs: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to add protein and creaminess.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Go Mediterranean by mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a touch of dried oregano. The combination of flavors will transport you to the shores of Greece.
• Avocado & Salsa: Add a southwestern twist with mashed avocado, salsa, and a dash of lime.
• Caramelized Onions & Gruyère Cheese: Add a French-inspired flair with sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère.
• Chopped Onions & Mushrooms: Pile on butter, chopped onions and mushrooms for a nutritious and filling topping.
• Chicken Stuffed: For a meaty, flavorful option, fill your potato with shredded chicken.