Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork Quesadillas

Name: Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 210 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder; 6 slices of bacon; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese; 4 large tortillas; 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh cilantro; 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cumin; 1/2 tsp (2g) smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil

By Gabriel Holloway · June 19, 2026 · Pulled Pork

Prep30 min

Cook150 min

Total210 min

Serves4

Pulled Pork Quesadillas — Tender pulled pork in a crispy tortilla

There's something special about a warm, cheesy quesadilla filled with tender, smoky pork that just feels like home. As a home cook who's passionate about comfort food, I've spent years perfecting my Pulled Pork Quesadillas recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you. This dish is all about layers of flavor, from the slow-cooked pork shoulder to the crispy, crunchy bacon and the creamy, melty cheese.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a weekend warrior, you can make this dish work for you. The pork can be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use, and the quesadillas can be assembled and cooked in just a few minutes.

I've also found that this recipe is a great way to get creative with leftovers. If you have leftover pork, you can use it to make tacos, salads, or even a hearty soup. And if you have leftover quesadillas, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy snack.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make tender, juicy pulled pork and crispy, crunchy bacon, and then show you how to assemble and cook the quesadillas to perfection. I'll also share some tips and variations to help you make the dish your own.

So whether you're a comfort food lover, a busy home cook, or just looking for a new recipe to try, I hope you'll give my Pulled Pork Quesadillas a try. With its rich, smoky flavors and crispy, cheesy texture, I think you'll find it's a dish that's sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The slow-cooked pork shoulder is tender and juicy, and the crispy bacon adds a nice crunch.
The quesadillas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
The recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
The dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings and fillings.
The recipe is perfect for comfort food lovers and beginners alike.
The dish is a great way to get creative with leftovers and reduce food waste.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the slow-cooked pork shoulder, which is cooked low and slow to break down the collagen and create tender, juicy meat. The pork is then pulled apart and mixed with crispy, crunchy bacon and a blend of spices and seasonings.

The quesadillas are then assembled and cooked in a hot skillet, where the cheese melts and the tortillas crisp up. The result is a dish that's both comforting and elegant, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

One of the things that makes this recipe work so well is the use of layers of flavor. The pork is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, and then mixed with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of cheese. The quesadillas are then cooked in a hot skillet, where the cheese melts and the tortillas crisp up.

Another important factor is the quality of the ingredients. I use high-quality pork shoulder and bacon, and a blend of spices and seasonings that adds depth and complexity to the dish. I also use fresh, high-quality tortillas and cheese, which helps to create a crispy, cheesy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients, including pork shoulder, bacon, cheese, and tortillas. You'll also need a blend of spices and seasonings, including cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.

When shopping for ingredients, look for high-quality pork shoulder and bacon, and fresh, high-quality tortillas and cheese. You can also customize the recipe with your favorite toppings and fillings, such as diced onions, bell peppers, and sour cream.

2 lbs (900g) pork shoulderLook for a pork shoulder with a good balance of fat and lean meat, as this will help to create tender and juicy pulled pork. You can also use a boneless pork shoulder or a pork butt, but a pork shoulder with a bone will add more flavor to the dish.
6 slices of baconThick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it will crisp up nicely and add a smoky flavor to the dish. You can also use regular bacon or even prosciutto, but thick-cut bacon is preferred.
1 large onion, dicedA sweet onion such as Vidalia or Maui works best for this recipe, as it will add a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the dish. You can also use a yellow or white onion, but a sweet onion is preferred.
2 cloves of garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it will add a pungent flavor and aroma to the dish. You can also use jarred garlic or even garlic powder, but fresh garlic is preferred.
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheeseA sharp cheddar cheese works best for this recipe, as it will add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish. You can also use a mild or medium cheddar cheese, but a sharp cheddar cheese is preferred.
4 large tortillasFresh, high-quality tortillas are essential for this recipe, as they will help to create a crispy and cheesy exterior and a tender and juicy interior. You can also use flour or corn tortillas, but flour tortillas are preferred.
1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh cilantroFresh cilantro is essential for this recipe, as it will add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish. You can also use dried cilantro or even parsley, but fresh cilantro is preferred.
1/2 tsp (2g) ground cuminGround cumin is essential for this recipe, as it will add a warm and earthy flavor to the dish. You can also use whole cumin seeds or even coriander, but ground cumin is preferred.
1/2 tsp (2g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika is essential for this recipe, as it will add a smoky and savory flavor to the dish. You can also use regular paprika or even chipotle powder, but smoked paprika is preferred.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are essential for this recipe, as they will help to balance the flavors and add depth and complexity to the dish. You can also use other seasonings such as garlic powder or onion powder, but salt and pepper are preferred.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilOlive oil is essential for this recipe, as it will help to cook the pork and bacon and add a rich and savory flavor to the dish. You can also use other oils such as avocado oil or even coconut oil, but olive oil is preferred.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lidLarge skillet or sauté panInstant-read thermometerTongs or slotted spoon Cutting boardChef's knifeMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Pulled Pork Quesadillas

1
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2
In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it's softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
7
Add the bacon to the pot and cook until it's crispy, about 5 minutes.
8
Add the pork shoulder back to the pot and cover it with a lid. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for 2 1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
9
Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in the chopped cilantro.
10
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork to the skillet and cook until it's crispy and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
11
Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
12
Assemble the quesadillas by spooning the pork onto half of the tortilla and topping with cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in the skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Expert Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a cast-iron skillet or a comal to cook the quesadillas, as these will help to create a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
Don't overfill the quesadillas with pork, as this can make them difficult to fold and cook.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the pork for extra flavor and texture.
Serve the quesadillas with a side of sour cream or salsa to add a cool and creamy element to the dish.
Use leftover pork to make tacos or salads, or freeze it for later use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the pork to a safe internal temperature, which can result in foodborne illness.
Overcooking the pork, which can make it dry and tough.
Not letting the pork rest before shredding it, which can result in a loss of juices and tenderness.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or stale tortillas, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not cooking the quesadillas long enough, which can result in a soft and soggy exterior.
Overfilling the quesadillas with pork, which can make them difficult to fold and cook.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pork for an extra spicy kick.
Use different types of cheese, such as Queso Fresco or Oaxaca cheese, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Add some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions to the pork for extra flavor and texture.
Use leftover chicken or beef instead of pork, or add some cooked vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the quesadillas.
Serve the quesadillas with a side of guacamole or sour cream to add a creamy and rich element to the dish.
Use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a healthier and more authentic option.
Add some crumbled cotija cheese or grated Parmesan cheese to the pork for extra flavor and texture.

What to Serve With Pulled Pork Quesadillas

Serve the Pulled Pork Quesadillas hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or refried beans for a more filling and satisfying meal.

Some other ideas for serving the quesadillas include adding some diced onions or bell peppers to the pork, or using different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or corn tortillas, for a healthier and more authentic option.

Serve the quesadillas with a side of salsa or guacamoleAdd some diced onions or bell peppers to the pork for extra flavor and textureUse different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavorServe the quesadillas with a side of refried beans or Mexican riceAdd some crumbled cotija cheese or grated Parmesan cheese to the pork for extra flavor and textureUse whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a healthier and more authentic option

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Pulled Pork Quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave the quesadillas for 20-30 seconds or cook them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown.

To freeze the quesadillas, simply assemble them without cooking and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the quesadillas to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To cook, simply thaw the quesadillas overnight in the refrigerator and cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown.

Some other tips for storing and reheating the quesadillas include using airtight containers to keep them fresh, and reheating them in the oven instead of the microwave for a crisper and more even texture. You can also add some extra cheese or sauce to the quesadillas before reheating for extra flavor and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pork is best for this recipe?

A pork shoulder with a good balance of fat and lean meat is best for this recipe, as it will help to create tender and juicy pulled pork. You can also use a boneless pork shoulder or a pork butt, but a pork shoulder with a bone will add more flavor to the dish.

How do I know when the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).

Can I use leftover pork to make the quesadillas?

Yes, you can use leftover pork to make the quesadillas. Simply shred the pork and mix it with the chopped cilantro and cheese, and then assemble the quesadillas as directed.

Can I freeze the quesadillas for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the quesadillas for later use. Simply assemble the quesadillas without cooking and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the quesadillas to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

A sharp cheddar cheese is best for this recipe, as it will add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor.

Can I use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, you can use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a healthier and more authentic option. Simply warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds, and then assemble the quesadillas as directed.

How do I reheat the quesadillas without drying them out?

To reheat the quesadillas without drying them out, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds or cook them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. You can also add some extra cheese or sauce to the quesadillas before reheating for extra flavor and moisture.

Can I add other ingredients to the pork, such as diced onions or bell peppers?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the pork, such as diced onions or bell peppers, for extra flavor and texture. Simply cook the ingredients in the skillet with the pork and then assemble the quesadillas as directed.

The Full Recipe

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