BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos

Name: BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 jalapenos
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos; 2 cups pulled pork (cooked and shredded); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Quick & Tasty Creations

I love hosting gatherings and these BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos never fail to impress my friends and family. The combination of spicy jalapenos and savory pulled pork, topped with melted cheese, creates a mouthwatering appetizer that disappears quickly. Making these is easier than you might think, and they add a fun twist to any barbecue or game day spread. Plus, they’re customizable, so you can adjust the heat level for your guests. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll become a staple at your parties!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T15:20:29.280Z

I first stumbled upon BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos at a friend's barbecue, and I was instantly hooked. The explosion of flavors from the tender pulled pork combined with the spicy kick of jalapenos was unforgettable. I knew I had to recreate this dish at home.

After several attempts, I perfected my method by slow-cooking the pork to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor. A critical tip is to soak the jalapenos in water for at least 30 minutes before stuffing; this helps reduce their heat and enhances the overall balance of flavors in the dish.

        Why You'll Love These
        Deliciously spicy with a smoky BBQ flavor
Great for parties, game days, or casual gatherings
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their appetizers

      

Handling Jalapenos

When working with jalapenos, it's essential to take care when slicing and deseeding. The heat from the peppers comes primarily from the seeds and the white pith inside. To minimize spiciness, remove as much of the pith as possible, and consider wearing gloves to avoid irritation from the oils. Soaking them in water for 30 minutes is also effective for tempering their heat, making them more enjoyable for guests who prefer milder flavors.

For roasting, the jalapenos should be sliced evenly to allow for consistent cooking. This ensures that each stuffed piece reaches that perfect blend of tender jalapeno and piping hot filling. A sharp knife is ideal to achieve clean cuts, reducing the chances of mushy edges that can affect presentation. Additionally, if you want extra flavor, you can lightly char them on a grill before stuffing.

Pulled Pork and Flavor Balance

The pulled pork is a standout feature of this recipe, with its savory and smoky essence complementing the heat of the jalapenos. Using store-bought BBQ pulled pork can save you time, but if you're feeling adventurous, slow-cooking your pork shoulder for several hours brings out maximum flavor. Season the pork well and let it rest before shredding, allowing juices to redistribute for a moist filling.

Balancing the flavors in your filling is crucial. The sweet and tangy notes from the BBQ sauce should harmonize with the spices you've added, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning. If you find the BBQ sauce too sweet, a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the tanginess, while a little smoked paprika can deepen the overall flavor profile. Plus, fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can add brightness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos are just as great served as a standalone snack as they are as part of a larger spread. I recommend presenting them on a large platter with additional BBQ sauce for dipping, complemented by cooling sides like ranch or sour cream to balance out the heat. For a delightful twist, try serving them with a fresh salsa or guacamole for extra layers of flavor and texture.

Feel free to experiment with the cheese topping as well! While cheddar is a classic choice for its melting qualities and rich flavor, you could also use pepper jack for added spice or a blend of cheeses for complexity. If you want to cater to dietary preferences, consider using vegan cheese or switching out pork for shredded chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute, making these jalapenos adaptable for any gathering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 jalapenos
2 cups pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos:

Prepare Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak them in water for 30 minutes.

Mix Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded pulled pork, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Stuff Jalapenos

Stuff each jalapeno half with the BBQ pulled pork mixture, then top each with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding crispy bacon bits to the pulled pork mixture before stuffing the jalapenos.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, these stuffed jalapenos can be prepared in advance, making your day easier. After stuffing the jalapenos, arrange them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste when baked. Just be sure to remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking so they can come to room temperature.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos. Lay the unbaked jalapenos on a tray to freeze individually first, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a delicious hot snack any time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making jalapenos is overcooking, resulting in mushy texture. To prevent this, monitor the baking time closely. Keep an eye out for the cheese bubbling and the edges of the jalapenos becoming slightly golden. If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes and check for doneness early.

Another potential problem is uneven filling caused by under-stirring the pulled pork mixture. Ensure that the BBQ sauce, spices, and pork are thoroughly combined before stuffing, so every bite is packed with flavor. If you find the filling isn’t sticking, add a little more BBQ sauce to help bind it together, ensuring a cohesive and satisfying bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapenos ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What if I don't like a lot of heat?

You can choose milder peppers or remove all the seeds and membranes from jalapenos to lessen their spiciness.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese or Monterey Jack are great alternatives that also work well in this recipe.

→ What can I serve with these jalapenos?

They pair wonderfully with some ranch dressing or a light cucumber salad to balance the heat.