BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos

Name: BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs pork shoulder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 12 large jalapeno peppers; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos for gatherings or just a cozy night in. The combination of smoky, tender pulled pork nestled in spicy jalapeno peppers creates an irresistible snack that’s packed with flavor. Each bite is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, thanks to the tangy BBQ sauce. Preparing these is a bit of a labor of love, but the joy on my friends' faces when they taste them makes it all worthwhile. Plus, they’re great for transporting, so they're perfect for potlucks!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:38:32.460Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to combine some of my favorite flavors into a single bite-sized treat. The process of slow-cooking the pork in a flavorful blend of spices and BBQ sauce infuses the meat with an incredible taste that pairs perfectly with the fresh jalapenos. I learned that using a smoker for the pork not only adds depth but also makes it incredibly tender.

During the preparation, I experimented with different toppings and found that a sprinkle of cheddar cheese really elevates the dish. It adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the spicy jalapeno. I always make sure to serve them fresh out of the oven for the best flavor experience!

        Why You'll Love These BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos
        Smoky, tender pork paired with spicy jalapenos
Sweet and tangy BBQ sauce for irresistible flavor
Great for parties or as a fun family meal

      

Perfecting the Pulled Pork

The key to incredibly tender pulled pork is the choice of meat. Pork shoulder, with its higher fat content, breaks down beautifully when slow-cooked, resulting in lush, juicy shreds. Opt for a piece with good marbling to enhance flavor and texture. Apply your dry rub liberally, allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or better yet, overnight in the fridge to deepen the smoky notes and seasoning. Slow cooking guarantees that the pork becomes fork-tender, especially in a slow cooker or a low-temperature oven.

Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial; aim for about 195°F (90°C) for the best shredding quality. When the pork reaches this magic number, it becomes easier to pull apart without excessive effort. Letting it rest for about 15 minutes after cooking before shredding helps retain its juices. Feeding this type of pork with flavorful BBQ sauce not only adds moisture but also enhances the dish's final taste profile, striking a perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness.

Getting the Jalapenos Just Right

When choosing jalapenos, size matters! Larger peppers will hold more stuffing and provide a better ratio of pork to pepper. If you're concerned about heat, opt for more mature jalapenos, which tend to be milder. Cutting them in half and removing all the seeds and white membranes significantly reduces their spiciness. However, if you're a fan of heat, leaving a few seeds can bring an exciting kick to each bite, making these jalapenos a bit of a gamble that pays off in flavor.

For baking, a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) is ideal. This temperature ensures that the cheese melts evenly, allowing it to bubble and brown beautifully. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; you want that gorgeous golden hue without overcooking. A tip I find helpful is to use a baking sheet lined with parchment or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier and to prevent sticking, especially if the cheesy goodness starts to ooze.

Serving Suggestions and Make-Ahead Tips

These BBQ Pulled Pork Jalapenos can be made ahead of time, which is a great benefit for gatherings. After stuffing, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you're ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if they went in straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll have a delicious, warm appetizer ready at a moment's notice.

Serving these jalapenos as part of a platter can elevate your gathering's appeal. Pair them with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing, which can help balance the heat. For an added touch, you can garnish with additional fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, enhancing both the presentation and flavor. If you want to take it further, consider serving alongside pickled veggies or a fresh salad to complement the richness of the pork while keeping the meal well-rounded.

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork

2 lbs pork shoulder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup BBQ sauce

For the Jalapenos

12 large jalapeno peppers
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Chopped green onions for garnish

Preparation of the ingredients is key to a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Pulled Pork

Rub the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt onto the pork shoulder. Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until tender.

Prep the Jalapenos

Once the pork is cooked, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. This will help reduce the heat, but you can leave some seeds if you prefer them spicier.

Assemble the Jalapenos

Stuff each jalapeno half with pulled pork, packing it in tightly. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!

Make sure to have napkins handy, as these can get a bit messy but are absolutely worth it!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the pulled pork before stuffing the jalapenos. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Ingredient Variations

While pork shoulder is the go-to for pulling, alternatives like beef brisket or chicken thighs can provide a different yet satisfying experience. Each choice brings its unique flavors and textures; for instance, chicken will yield a lighter dish, perfect for those looking for a lower-fat option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken generally cooks faster—around 3-4 hours on low in a slow cooker.

If you're looking for a meatless option, consider using a hearty jackfruit, which mimics the texture of pulled pork beautifully. Use the same spices and BBQ sauce, and cook it until it's shreddable for a vegan twist. This substitution ensures everyone can enjoy the flavors, regardless of dietary choices.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your pulled pork feels too dry, it may have overcooked or didn’t have enough fat. For the future, always check the internal temperature frequently in the last hour of cooking. If you find yourself with dry pork, mixing in some additional BBQ sauce or broth while shredding can help bring back moisture.

In contrast, if your jalapenos are overly spicy due to the seeds left in, serving them with a cooling dip or side can balance the heat. You can also opt for milder varieties of peppers, like banana peppers or Anaheim peppers, for those sensitive to spice while maintaining the core concept of the dish.

Storage and Freezing Options

Leftover pulled pork can last in the refrigerator for up to five days when stored in an airtight container. Use it in various ways: atop nachos, in tacos, or simply as a sandwich filler. To keep the flavor intact, always add additional BBQ sauce when reheating, as it can dry out during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pulled pork alone. It can be frozen for up to three months. To do this, divide it into meal-sized portions in freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently to preserve moisture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, chicken or beef can also work well in place of pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare and stuff the jalapenos a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

→ What can I serve with these jalapenos?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or a side of tortilla chips and salsa.

→ Are these spicy?

They have a mild to moderate heat level, but you can adjust it by removing more seeds from the jalapenos or using milder peppers.