Cheese And Bbq Pulled Pork: The Perfect Pairing

When it comes to BBQ pulled pork, there are endless ways to serve it, but one of the most popular methods is in a sandwich. While some may opt for a traditional BBQ sauce topping, others like to add an extra layer of flavour and texture with cheese. But what type of cheese goes best?

A sharp cheddar is a popular choice, adding a tangy, full-flavoured kick that complements the smoky, sweet taste of BBQ sauce. For those who like a little spice, Pepper Jack cheese is a great option, providing a similar melting texture to cheddar with an added kick of heat. If spice isn't your thing, a mild Monterey Jack is another good melting cheese that adds creaminess without being overpowering.

For those who want to stick to a more classic grilled cheese, mozzarella is a great option, and for a nuttier, tangier flavour, Swiss cheese is a popular choice.

Ultimately, the choice of cheese comes down to personal preference, and with so many options available, there's no need to stop at just one!

Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby, or Colby Jack cheese

Monterey Jack and Colby are similar in that they are both semi-hard cheeses with a mild flavour and excellent melting properties. They are ideal for adding creaminess to a dish without being too overpowering. If you want to add a little spice to your pulled pork, Pepper Jack is a great option. It has the same melting qualities as Monterey Jack but with a kick of heat. Colby Jack is a marbled mixture of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, combining the mild flavour of Colby with the melting ability of Monterey Jack.

When choosing a cheese to pair with BBQ pulled pork, it's important to consider the other ingredients and flavours in the dish. BBQ pulled pork typically has a tangy, smoky flavour, so a mild, melting cheese like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby, or Colby Jack can balance out the tanginess and enhance the creaminess of the dish.

These cheeses also pair well with other common ingredients in BBQ pulled pork dishes, such as barbecue sauce, buns, and various toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or jalapenos. The mild flavour of these cheeses won't compete with the other ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.

In conclusion, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby, or Colby Jack cheese are all fantastic choices for adding a creamy, mild flavour to BBQ pulled pork while complementing the other ingredients in the dish.

Sharp cheddar cheese

When it comes to choosing the best cheese to pair with BBQ pulled pork, sharp cheddar cheese stands out as an exceptional option. Its strong flavour and smooth texture make it a perfect complement to the rich, smoky taste of pulled pork. Here's why sharp cheddar cheese is a top choice for your next BBQ feast.

Flavour and Texture

Melting Magic

One of the secrets to the success of sharp cheddar cheese in BBQ pulled pork is its melting ability. When shredded and mixed into the pulled pork, sharp cheddar melts beautifully, creating a cohesive blend of meat and cheese. This results in a mouthwatering, juicy texture that keeps your guests coming back for more. The cheese literally becomes one with the pulled pork, making it impossible to resist.

Versatile Applications

Spice It Up

If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different varieties of sharp cheddar cheese to add a kick to your BBQ pulled pork. For a spicy twist, opt for Pepper Jack sharp cheddar, which brings a subtle heat to the dish. This variety adds a layer of complexity to the flavour profile, making your BBQ offering truly memorable. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy experience, sharp cheddar has a range of options to suit your taste buds.

A Crowd Favourite

Mozzarella cheese

BBQ Pork Mozzarella Melt

This recipe combines the flavours of slow-roasted pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a delicious and hearty sandwich that is perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make it:

• Preheat your oven's broiler to low.
• Gather the following ingredients: English muffin bread or sourdough bread, butter, Frigo® Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, pulled BBQ pork, red onion, lettuce, and sweet gherkin pickles (all optional).
• Butter both sides of each bread slice and place them on a sheet tray. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is browned on one side.
• Flip the bread slices and top 4 slices with mozzarella cheese. On the other 4 slices, add BBQ pork and another slice of mozzarella cheese.
• Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the pork is warmed through.
• Assemble the sandwiches by layering the BBQ pork-topped bread with red onion, lettuce, and BBQ sauce, as desired. Place the melty mozzarella cheese-topped bread slices on top.
• Secure the sandwiches with sweet gherkin spiked skewers and serve hot with coleslaw and extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Choose your bread: While a traditional hamburger bun is a classic choice, you can also try a pretzel bun, Hawaiian roll, seeded bun, or sourdough bread for a unique twist.
• Prepare the pulled pork: Smoke, slow cook, or use a crock pot to prepare the pulled pork. Shred the pork and mix it with barbecue sauce.
• Assemble the sandwich: Toast the bun slightly and add toppings like sliced red onion, coleslaw, or pineapple slices. Place the sliced mozzarella cheese on the bottom bun, followed by the pulled pork, and then add more cheese on top if desired.
• Serve with sides: Pulled pork sandwiches go well with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, or homemade potato chips.

Swiss cheese

When creating a BBQ pulled pork sandwich, you can add slices of Swiss cheese and broil until melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can make a pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich with Swiss cheese instead of the traditional cheddar.

If you're looking for a more creative option, try adding Swiss cheese to your pulled pork mac and cheese for a unique flavour profile. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as pretzel buns, Hawaiian rolls, or seeded buns, to add a twist to your sandwich.

Remember, when choosing the right cheese for your pulled pork, it's essential to consider the flavour, texture, and appearance of the cheese. Swiss cheese's nutty flavour and golden brown colour make it an excellent choice for enhancing the taste and visual appeal of your dish.

Provolone cheese

Another option is to create a BBQ pulled pork and provolone cheese griller on ciabatta bread. This combination provides a good balance of carbs, fat, and protein, making it a filling and satisfying option.

If you're looking for an appetizer or snack, you can try grilling provolone cheese, also known as "provoleta," which is a popular dish in Argentina. To prepare this, a thick slice of provolone is grilled over coals until browned and bubbly, then served with bread. It can also be cooked in a cast-iron pan, under a broiler, or in a hot oven.

Frequently asked questions