Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap pulled pork for shredded chicken, beef, or even jackfruit. Just make sure it has a similar texture and taste to match the BBQ sauce and cheese.

How long can I store BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep the shells and sauce separate. Reheat covered in foil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to keep the pasta moist.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the pulled pork and stuff the shells up to 24 hours ahead. Then, bake when you're ready. It's great for meal prep or parties.

What's the best way to get tender pulled pork?

Cook the pork low and slow. Use a slow cooker or oven at 225-250°F for hours. A fatty cut like pork shoulder or Boston butt works best for tenderness and flavor.

Are there any gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?

Use gluten-free pasta shells or large bell pepper halves for a gluten-free version. Also, pick a gluten-free BBQ sauce to avoid wheat.

How spicy can I make these stuffed shells?

You can add as much spice as you like! Choose spicy BBQ sauce, add red pepper flakes, or jalapeños. For mild, use sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells?

Try coleslaw, corn on the cob, roasted veggies, or a green salad. A crisp slaw balances the richness of the cheese and pork.

Can I freeze BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Assemble without baking, then freeze in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Use ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for melting, and sharp cheddar for flavor. Try monterey jack or pepper jack for extra kick.

How many shells should I prepare per person?

Plan for 3-4 shells per person as a main dish. With sides, you might need 2-3 shells. The recipe can be scaled up or down.

BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells: Amazing 5-Ingredient Recipe

Name: BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells Recipe - Easy Comfort Food Fusion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 24 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups cooked pulled pork, shredded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 shallot, finely diced; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided; 1/2 cup red onion, diced (for garnish); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste

Description

These BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Shells combine the comfort of Italian pasta with bold American barbecue flavors. Tender pulled pork and creamy cheeses fill jumbo shells, creating a perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

24 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups cooked pulled pork, shredded

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 shallot, finely diced

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 cup barbecue sauce, divided

1/2 cup red onion, diced (for garnish)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, diced shallot, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until smooth.

3. Add shredded pulled pork, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup mozzarella to the cream cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with approximately 1 tablespoon of the pulled pork mixture.

5. Arrange stuffed shells in a 13×9 inch baking dish. Drizzle remaining barbecue sauce over shells.

6. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with diced red onion and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Can be prepared 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Store leftovers in refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezer-friendly: Assemble without baking, wrap well, and freeze up to 3 months.

For spicier version, add jalapeños or use spicy barbecue sauce.

Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta shells.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 shells
Calories: 485
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg