Pork's Cheesy Affair: Best Cheese Pairings Explored

Pork and cheese is a classic combination, with many varieties of cheese pairing well with different pork dishes. For instance, blue cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, Gruyere, and fresh cheeses all go well with pork. A French classic is bone-in pork chops with a creamy cheese sauce, often made with Gruyere cheese. Pork tenderloin can be stuffed with cheese, such as cheddar, cream cheese, or Swiss cheese. Pulled pork, on the other hand, is often paired with Mexican cheeses like queso fresco or cotija, or spicy pepper jack.

Extra sharp cheddar or Jack cheese for pulled pork

When it comes to pulled pork, there are several types of cheese that can be used to enhance its flavour. One of the most popular choices is cheddar cheese. The sharp and bold flavour of cheddar cheese adds a delicious kick to the smoky, tender meat of pulled pork. Whether you prefer extra sharp cheddar or a milder version, this classic cheese is a fantastic choice for topping off your pulled pork sandwich or adding a creamy layer to your pulled pork mac and cheese.

Another excellent option for pairing with pulled pork is Jack cheese. This smooth and mild cheese melts beautifully, making it an ideal choice for adding a creamy texture to pulled pork dishes. You can experiment with different types of Jack cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to find the one that best suits your taste.

Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a versatile option that tends to have a smooth flavour and works well with many ingredients, including pork. When paired with pulled pork, extra sharp cheddar cheese can add a bold and tangy flavour that complements the smokiness of the meat. Its strong flavour can also help to balance out other ingredients, such as the sweetness of apples or honey in a sauce.

One popular way to use extra sharp cheddar cheese with pulled pork is in a grilled cheese sandwich. The sharpness of the cheese can cut through the richness of the pulled pork, creating a delicious contrast. You can also experiment with adding other ingredients, such as balsamic vinegar or herbs, to enhance the flavour profile of the dish.

Jack Cheese

Jack cheese, on the other hand, offers a milder flavour that can complement the smokiness of pulled pork without overwhelming it. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it ideal for melting into pulled pork dishes, adding a rich and indulgent element to the meal.

When using Jack cheese with pulled pork, you can incorporate it into sandwiches, tacos, or even stuffed potatoes. Its mild flavour also makes it a versatile option for those who want to experiment with adding other spices or ingredients to their pulled pork dish.

In conclusion, both extra sharp cheddar cheese and Jack cheese can be excellent choices for pairing with pulled pork. They each offer unique flavour profiles and textures that can enhance the overall taste experience. Whether you prefer the boldness of extra sharp cheddar or the smoothness of Jack cheese, either option is sure to take your pulled pork dish to the next level.

Blue cheese for pulled pork

Blue cheese is a popular choice for pork, and it can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavour of pulled pork dishes. Blue cheese is known for its tangy flavour and aroma and its creamy consistency. When combined with pulled pork, it creates a delicious and indulgent meal.

One way to incorporate blue cheese into a pulled pork dish is to use it as a topping or ingredient in a sauce. Crumbled blue cheese can be sprinkled over pulled pork sandwiches or sliders, adding a creamy texture and a punch of flavour. It can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as ranch dressing, bacon, and coleslaw, to create a unique and tasty slaw that complements the pork.

Blue cheese can also be used as a stuffing for pork. For example, a pocket can be created in a pork chop, and then stuffed with a mixture of blue cheese, chopped pecans, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. This combination of sweet and savoury flavours will surely impress.

For those who enjoy a little spice, a chipotle pulled pork and blue cheese dip is a perfect choice. This dish combines pulled pork, blue cheese, cream cheese, chipotle peppers, and pickled jalapeños. Served with bread, crackers, or mini buns for dipping, it's a tasty treat for those who enjoy a little kick.

Blue cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a simple pulled pork dish to something extraordinary. Whether used as a topping, sauce, or stuffing, blue cheese adds a tangy and creamy dimension to the flavour of pork. So, the next time you're looking to impress, consider adding blue cheese to your pulled pork creation.

Swiss cheese for pork tenderloin sandwiches

Swiss cheese is a versatile choice for pork tenderloin sandwiches, adding a creamy texture and a mild flavour that won't overpower the other ingredients.

One way to prepare a pork tenderloin sandwich with Swiss cheese is to season the pork with olive oil, salt, pepper, caraway seeds, mustard, and dried herbs. Roast the tenderloin in a hot oven until golden brown, then thinly slice it. Prepare beer-braised onions and assemble the sandwich by layering the pork, Swiss cheese, and onions on a roll. Broil the sandwich until the cheese is melted, then add tangy sauerkraut, and serve hot.

Another option is to prepare a Cuban sandwich by combining the Swiss cheese with ham, pickles, mustard, and red cabbage and mango slaw. Press and grill the sandwich for a tasty, toasted treat.

For a different flavour profile, try a sweet and savoury combination. Prepare a balsamic reduction and assemble the sandwich with arugula, roasted red peppers, and Swiss cheese.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, you can also make a pork tenderloin sandwich with Swiss cheese and eggs. Simply add a slice of omelette, some mayo, mustard, and a sweet pickle to your sandwich.

Provolone cheese for pork sandwiches

Provolone is a popular Italian cheese, and one of the three most popular Italian cheeses worldwide, along with mozzarella and parmesan. It is a staple in many households and famous sandwiches like the Philly cheesesteak and stromboli. There are two types of provolone cheese: dolce (sweet) and piccante (spicy). Dolce provolone is a milder, softer cheese that has been aged for a few months, while piccante has a stronger taste and harder texture, aged for a few years.

Provolone grilled cheese sandwiches are a delicious and grown-up take on the classic comfort food. They are simple to make and can be cooked in a skillet or air fryer. Here is a recipe for you to try:

Provolone Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• Provolone cheese, shredded or thinly sliced
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded or thinly sliced (Swiss or cheddar cheese will also work)
• Parmesan cheese, shredded
• Hearty white sandwich bread, 1/2 inch thick, or crusty French, Italian, sourdough, challah, or country bread
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Dried oregano leaves
• Italian parsley, fresh, chopped
• Fresh ground black pepper

Directions:

• Combine the shredded cheeses, black pepper, parsley, and oregano in a small bowl, if not using slices.
• Brush one side of the bread slices generously with melted butter.
• Place a generous amount of cheese mixture (about 3/4 cup) or 2 slices of provolone and 1 slice of mozzarella on the non-buttered side of each slice of bread.
• Top with a heaping tablespoon of shredded parmesan, if desired.
• Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
• For an air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F and coat the basket surface with cooking spray. Place the sandwiches in a single layer and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through.
• For a skillet: Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Build the sandwiches in the skillet, or brush one side of each slice of bread with butter and place in the skillet. Layer with the cheese mixture or slices, cover with the remaining bread slices, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula.
• Slice and serve immediately.

Provolone and Pork Sandwiches

Pork and provolone is a classic combination, and you can find many recipes for sandwiches featuring this duo. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Grilled pork panini: Pesto, provolone cheese, olive oil, and pork chops, grilled between slices of Italian bread.
• Slow cooker French dip sandwich: Chuck roast, provolone cheese, butter, pepper, and other seasonings, served on baguette.
• Cuban-style turnovers: Roast pork, baked ham, sesame seeds, provolone cheese, and other ingredients baked in a turnover.
• Hot grinder sandwich: Ham, dried minced onion, green bell pepper, garlic, provolone cheese, and other ingredients served on a sandwich roll.

Mozzarella cheese for pulled pork

Mozzarella is a mild cheese that pairs well with pulled pork. It is a good melting cheese, making it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches.

One way to use mozzarella with pulled pork is in a grilled cheese sandwich. To make this, spread mayonnaise on the inside of two slices of bread, sprinkling one slice with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Top one slice with shredded mozzarella, followed by pulled pork, sliced pickles, barbecue sauce, and more mozzarella. Place the other slice of bread on top, with the seasoned side facing the filling. Spread mayonnaise on the outside of the sandwich and cook in a cast-iron skillet until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

You can also make a BBQ pork and mozzarella melt. To make this, butter slices of English muffin bread or sourdough and cook them in the oven until browned. Top four slices with mozzarella, and the other four with pulled pork, onion, lettuce, and barbecue sauce, along with another slice of mozzarella. Allow to bake until the cheese has melted. Make sandwiches by layering the two types of slices and serve with coleslaw and barbecue sauce.

Mozzarella can also be used with pulled pork in quesadillas, or melted on top of pan-fried pork chops.

Frequently asked questions