👉SlowCookerPulledPork

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Cheddar Potato Skillet Casserole

Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of a hearty, comfort-filled meal ready to be enjoyed. That’s exactly what this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Cheddar Potato Skillet Casserole delivers. Tender pulled pork, perfectly cooked potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese all blend together in a slow cooker to create a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. This is the kind of meal that will make your family gather around the table and savor every bite. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or a casual meal to impress guests.

Whether you’re using leftover pulled pork or making it fresh, this casserole is simple to prepare and packed with deliciousness. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together as you go about your day. When it’s time to eat, all you need to do is sprinkle on the cheese and let it melt into a creamy, cheesy finish. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the pulled pork, diced potatoes, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and have absorbed all the rich flavors of the pulled pork and BBQ sauce.
3. Add Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Allow it to melt and become bubbly and golden.
4. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with your choice of herbs or additional BBQ sauce for a flavor-packed finish. Enjoy your comforting and delicious casserole!

20 FAQs About the Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Cheddar Potato Skillet Casserole

1. Can I use fresh pulled pork instead of pre-cooked? Yes, you can cook fresh pork shoulder in the slow cooker or oven until tender, then shred it for this recipe.
2. What kind of potatoes should I use? Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they hold up well in the slow cooker and become tender without turning mushy.
3. Can I substitute the BBQ sauce? Yes, you can use any type of BBQ sauce you prefer, from tangy vinegar-based to sweeter varieties, or even a spicy sauce for an extra kick.
4. Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack cheese would also work well for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, onions, or corn to the slow cooker for more texture and flavor.
6. Can I make this casserole spicier? Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add some heat.
7. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes would be a delicious substitution, adding a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
8. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
9. Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
10. Can I reheat this casserole? Yes, reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat.
11. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prep everything the night before and refrigerate it. Just cook it in the slow cooker the next day.
12. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure your BBQ sauce doesn’t contain gluten if you’re using store-bought.
13. Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, chicken (shredded after cooking) can be used as a substitute for the pulled pork for a lighter version of the dish.
14. How can I make this casserole creamier? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking for extra creaminess.
15. What should I do if the casserole is too dry? Add a little more chicken broth or BBQ sauce to add moisture if needed.
16. How can I make this casserole cheesy? Add extra shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking or broil the casserole for a few minutes for a golden crust.
17. Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, frozen diced potatoes will work, but they may release more moisture than fresh ones.
18. Should I stir the casserole during cooking? It’s best to leave it undisturbed so the flavors can meld. Stirring occasionally won’t hurt, but it’s not necessary.
19. Can I use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup? Yes, using a slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze.
20. Can I add some crunchy topping? Yes, you can top the casserole with crispy fried onions or crushed crackers during the last 15 minutes of cooking for extra texture.

20 Best Tips to Make the Perfect Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Cheddar Potato Skillet Casserole

1. Evenly dice your potatoes for consistent cooking.
2. Layer the ingredients carefully to ensure all potatoes are coated with the flavorful broth and BBQ sauce.
3. Use homemade pulled pork for a richer flavor if you have the time.
4. Don’t overcook the potatoes—check tenderness after 6 hours on low.
5. Opt for full-fat cheese for the creamiest, richest texture.
6. Add a touch of liquid smoke for a smoky depth of flavor.
7. Cook on low for best results, as it allows the potatoes to fully absorb the flavors.
8. Top with extra cheese near the end of cooking for a gooey finish.
9. Feel free to experiment with seasonings—garlic powder, paprika, or even a bit of chili powder.
10. Make it a one-pot meal by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the casserole.
11. Use BBQ sauce that complements the pork—a smoky or tangy sauce enhances the flavor.
12. Add some spice with cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like a kick.
13. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
14. Make sure to scrape the sides of the slow cooker to prevent burning on the edges.
15. For extra crispy cheese, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
16. Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
17. Consider adding some chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh garnish.
18. Use a slow cooker with a timer function to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
19. Add cooked bacon or sausage for an extra savory, hearty touch.
20. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Storage and Heating Tips:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until fully heated through.
• For crispy cheese: After reheating, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to get a crispy top.

Enjoy this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Cheddar Potato Skillet Casserole and make it a staple in your meal rotation. It’s comfort food at its finest, simple to make, and guaranteed to be a hit!