Easy Pulled Pork Quesadilla Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Pulled Pork (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 large Flour Tortillas (8-10 inch)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (your favorite flavor)
- 1/4 cup Diced Red Onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Butter or Oil
Step-by-Step
1. If using homemade pulled pork, ensure it is cooked and shredded. If using store-bought, gently warm it according to package directions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the pulled pork with the BBQ sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
3. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface.
4. Sprinkle half of the tortilla with about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
5. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the BBQ pulled pork mixture over the cheese.
6. If desired, sprinkle with a few diced red onions.
7. Top with another 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
8. Fold the tortilla in half to create a quesadilla.
9. Repeat steps 3-8 with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and pulled pork mixture.
10. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
11. Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil to the skillet.
12. Carefully place two quesadillas in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd.
13. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
14. Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and set aside.
15. Repeat steps 11-14 with the remaining quesadillas, adding more butter or oil as needed.
16. Cut each quesadilla into wedges.
17. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
18. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Understanding Pulled Pork for Quesadillas
### Choosing Your Pulled Pork
The heart of this quesadilla lies in the pulled pork.
You have a couple of great options: homemade or store-bought.
Homemade allows for complete control over flavor and ingredients.
Store-bought offers convenience and saves time.
Consider the flavors of the pulled pork itself.
Sweet, smoky, or spicy pulled pork will each contribute a unique dimension to the final dish.
### BBQ Sauce Pairings
BBQ sauce complements pulled pork beautifully.
Consider the type of BBQ sauce you prefer.
Tangy vinegar-based sauces offer a different profile than sweet, molasses-based ones.
Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect match.
A spicy BBQ sauce can add a kick, while a milder sauce keeps things family-friendly.
### Prepping the Pulled Pork
Whether homemade or store-bought, ensure the pulled pork is heated through before assembling the quesadillas.
This will help the cheese melt evenly and create a warm, comforting meal.
If the pulled pork is too chunky, shred it further for easier distribution within the quesadilla.
Too much liquid in the pork can make the quesadilla soggy. Drain off any excess juices.
Cheese & Tortilla Choices for Optimal Results
### Selecting the Right Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for quesadillas.
Its sharp flavor pairs well with the smoky sweetness of pulled pork and BBQ sauce.
Monterey Jack is a milder alternative that melts beautifully.
For a more complex flavor, try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Consider using pre-shredded cheese for convenience, or shred your own for better melting.
### Choosing the Perfect Tortilla
Flour tortillas are the traditional choice for quesadillas.
Look for large tortillas (8-10 inches) to ensure ample space for filling.
Whole wheat tortillas offer a slightly nutty flavor and added fiber.
Corn tortillas can be used, but they are more prone to cracking when folded.
Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable and prevent tearing.
### Achieving the Perfect Melt
The key to a great quesadilla is perfectly melted cheese.
Using a medium heat and a non-stick skillet will help prevent burning.
Press down gently on the quesadilla with a spatula while it cooks to ensure even contact with the heat.
If the tortillas are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Adding Veggies & Flavor Boosters
### Incorporating Vegetables
While the basic recipe is delicious, adding vegetables can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value.
Diced red onion adds a sharp, pungent bite.
Bell peppers, either raw or sautéed, provide sweetness and color.
Jalapeños offer a spicy kick for those who like some heat.
Consider adding black beans or corn for a southwestern twist.
### Flavor-Boosting Add-ins
Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note.
A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
A sprinkle of your favorite taco seasoning can add depth and complexity.
A drizzle of hot sauce can amp up the heat.
Consider a smoky chipotle powder for a unique flavor.
### Preparing the Add-ins
Dice vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution within the quesadilla.
Sauté vegetables before adding them to the quesadilla for a softer texture and more developed flavor.
Drain any excess liquid from canned ingredients, such as black beans or corn.
Don’t overfill the quesadilla, as this can make it difficult to fold and cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions & Side Dish Ideas
### Perfecting the Presentation
Cut each quesadilla into wedges for easy serving and dipping.
Arrange the wedges attractively on a plate.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream.
Consider serving with a side of your favorite salsa or guacamole.
A sprinkle of cotija cheese adds a salty, crumbly texture.
### Complementary Side Dishes
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the quesadilla.
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice complements the flavors of the pulled pork and BBQ sauce.
Black beans or refried beans offer a hearty and flavorful side.
Corn on the cob or grilled vegetables are a summery addition.
A creamy coleslaw adds a cool, crunchy element.
### Dipping Sauces & Toppings
Sour cream is a classic topping for quesadillas.
Guacamole adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Salsa provides a tangy, flavorful kick.
Pico de gallo offers a fresh, vibrant topping.
A drizzle of chipotle mayo adds a smoky, spicy element.
Make Ahead Tips & Storage Instructions
### Preparing in Advance
The pulled pork can be made or purchased several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
The cheese can be shredded ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.
The vegetables can be diced and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
The assembled quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
However, it’s best to cook them immediately for optimal texture.
### Storage Instructions
Cooked quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm them in a skillet, oven, or microwave.
Reheating in a skillet or oven will help maintain the crispy texture of the tortilla.
Microwaving can make the tortilla slightly soggy.
### Freezing Quesadillas
Cooked quesadillas can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To reheat, thaw the quesadillas in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a skillet or oven.
Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the tortilla, but the quesadillas will still be delicious.
FAQ
What kind of cheese is best for quesadillas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a blend of the two are excellent choices. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
Can I use corn tortillas for quesadillas?
Yes, but flour tortillas are more pliable and less likely to crack. Warm corn tortillas before folding.
How do I keep my quesadilla from getting soggy?
Drain excess liquid from the pulled pork and don’t overfill the quesadilla. Cook over medium heat.
What are some good toppings for quesadillas?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo, and chipotle mayo are all delicious toppings.
Can I make quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
