Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Buttery sourdough, saucy pulled pork, and gooey melted cheese come together for a grilled cheese sandwich that feels like pure comfort. It is the perfect way to turn leftovers into something you will want to make again and again.

Repurposing leftovers is one of my favorite things. I love it when I know that once this meal is done, I have plans for it to become something entirely different. Especially now that our “nest” has truly emptied. After years of cooking for a family of six, cooking for two is a huge challenge for me. In fact, on Sundays when we are all together, and I am cooking for our now family of thirteen, I find it so much easier than when there are just two of us.

Grilled Cheese with Pulled Pork 

These grilled pork grilled cheese sandwiches started out as my Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork. An easy recipe that I have been making for dinners and tailgates for years. It’s a pork loin roast or pork butt that is slow-cooked in a homemade Dr. Pepper barbecue sauce, and served on hamburger or slider buns. I love this particular recipe, not only because it’s so easy to make and tastes terrific, but it freezes well and is great for repurposing. Plus, I am just a sucker for a grilled cheese sandwich!

pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich

When you have leftover pulled pork, turning it into a grilled cheese sandwich is one of the best ways to bring new life to it. This is the kind of recipe that feels like the ultimate comfort food. Crispy, buttery bread, gooey melted cheese, and a savory pork mixture come together for a sandwich that tastes like something special but is simple enough for any night of the week.

If you love these BBQ Pork Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, be sure to check out my Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich recipe and these Smoked BBQ Hot Dogs & Kraut. If Barbecue is your jam, check out this round up of recipes to make with a bottle of BBQ Sauce.

Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese sandwiches are already a favorite, but when you add tender pulled pork, they get even better. The flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, tender pork, and gooey cheese are irresistible. Sourdough bread is a great choice here because it holds up to the pork mixture and doesn’t get soggy the way softer bread like white bread can. Gouda is my go-to cheese for this sandwich, but melted cheddar, American cheese, or even pepper jack are delicious options.

Ingredients in Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

You will find the exact measurements and instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Leftover pulled pork – already sauced if you are using my Dr. Pepper BBQ pork, otherwise mix with barbecue sauce, bottled or homemade BBQ sauce.
• Sourdough bread – holds up nicely and keeps its crunch.
• Gouda cheese – regular or try smoked gouda. Sub American cheese, cheddar, or pepper jack if you prefer.
• Butter – for the side of each slice of bread for grilling. Some people like to use mayonnaise, but I am a fan of butter.

How to Make Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

These come together quickly and easily. Perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t feel like cooking.

First, warm the BBQ pork before you build your sandwich so it heats through evenly with the cheese.

Spread butter on the side of each slice of bread so you get that crispy, golden brown finish.

Cook the sandwich over medium heat. Too hot and the bread will burn before the cheese melts, too low and it won’t crisp properly.

Don’t overload the bottom slice with pork. A balanced filling helps the melted cheese hold everything together. Make sure there is cheese touching both slices of bread.

Storage and Serving Ideas

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is best served fresh off the skillet while the bread is still crisp and the cheese is melted. Serve with tomato soup for a classic pairing, coleslaw for crunch, or just keep it simple with potato chips or French fries. These sandwiches also make a great game day snack when cut into smaller portions.

Love it? Pin It!

If you can’t wait to make these pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches, make sure you can find the recipe. Pin them to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go.

More Recipes to Love

I have so many barbecue recipes to love right here on my website! Those Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Ribs you see above are one of my readers’ favorites. You need to check out my Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza, BBQ Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts, BBQ Little Smokies, and these BBQ Pork Chops.

Pulled pork grilled cheese FAQs

• Can I use other meats? Yes. This recipe is perfect for leftover pulled pork, but also works with shredded chicken or even pulled beef.
• What cheese is best for this sandwich? Gouda is creamy and melts beautifully. American cheese gives that diner-style grilled cheese flavor. Pepper jack adds a little spice. You can even mix cheeses or add a second slice of cheese for more gooeyness.
• Can I freeze these? I do not recommend freezing the assembled sandwiches because the bread will get soggy. You can, however, freeze portions of pulled pork and thaw them later for a quick grilled cheese.

This sandwich is the kind of recipe that turns leftovers into something you will look forward to eating again. The crispy sourdough, melty cheese, and smoky pork make a meal that always feels like a good time. Whether you are craving a quick lunch or a simple dinner, this Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese will become one of your new favorites.