Prepackaged pulled pork can be a quick and easy dinner option for busy weeknights. While pulled pork is traditionally made by slow-roasting a pork shoulder or pork butt for hours, prepackaged pulled pork allows you to skip that time-consuming step. The pork is already fully cooked and shredded. All that’s left for you to do is heat it up and add your favorite bbq sauce or other seasonings.
What is pulled pork?
Pulled pork is a barbecue dish made from pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt or pork butt. The pork shoulder is cooked low and slow, either roasted, smoked, or braised until extremely tender. Once cooked, the pork is “pulled” or shredded into strings using two forks. The shredded pork is then tossed or doused in a flavorful barbecue sauce. Pulled pork is a staple of Southern U.S. cuisine and a classic barbecue dish.
Traditional pulled pork can take upwards of 8-12 hours to cook in a smoker or oven. Prepackaged pulled pork eliminates this lengthy cooking time by fully cooking and shredding the pork ahead of time. The pre-shredded pork can be quickly heated and sauced for an easy weeknight meal.
Benefits of using prepackaged pulled pork
There are several advantages to using pre-made pulled pork rather than making it entirely from scratch:
- Saves time – No need to cook the pork shoulder for hours, it’s already fully cooked when you buy it prepackaged
- Convenient – Just heat and serve, no lengthy prep or cooking required
- Consistent texture – The pork is professionally pre-shredded to the ideal pulled consistency
- Versatile – Use it for tacos, sandwiches, pizza, nachos, etc. Endless possibilities!
- No leftovers – Prepackaged portions allow you to thaw just what you need for a meal
Types of prepackaged pulled pork
There are a few different forms you may find prepackaged pulled pork available in:
Refrigerated
Refrigerated, pre-shredded pulled pork can be found in the refrigerated meat section at many grocery stores. This pulled pork is fully cooked but still fresh, not shelf-stable. It will need to be used within 4-7 days of opening. The texture is moist and tender.
Frozen
Frozen pulled pork is very common. It allows for longer storage. The pork is pre-cooked then flash frozen to lock in moisture. Look for it in the frozen meat section. Thaw in the refrigerator before using. The texture will be juicy after thawing.
Canned/Pouched
Shelf-stable canned or pouched pulled pork is fully cooked and processed for longterm storage at room temperature. The pork will have a softer, more shredded texture than the refrigerated or frozen versions. Shelf-stable pulled pork can be stored unopened for 6-9 months. Once opened, it should be used within 5-7 days.
How to cook refrigerated prepackaged pulled pork
Refrigerated pulled pork has the closest texture and flavor to freshly homemade. Here is a simple way to prepare it:
- Take the refrigerated pulled pork out of the packaging and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Use a fork to break up any large clumps of pork.
- Microwave on High for 2-3 minutes until heated through. The pork should reach 165°F internally.
- Drain any excess liquid from the pork.
- Toss the hot pulled pork with your desired barbecue sauce, seasoning rub, or other flavors.
- Serve warm on hamburger buns, over baked potatoes, or atop nachos.
Refrigerated pulled pork can also be heated in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop instead of the microwave. Just stir frequently until fully warmed, about 5 minutes.
Microwave cooking times
| Amount | Microwave Time |
|---|---|
| 1 cup pulled pork | 1-2 minutes |
| 2 cups pulled pork | 2-3 minutes |
| 1 pound (3-4 cups) pulled pork | 3-5 minutes |
How to prepare frozen prepackaged pulled pork
Frozen pulled pork requires thawing before heating. Here are a few thawing options:
Refrigerator Thaw
For best quality, thaw frozen pulled pork overnight in the refrigerator. Place the frozen pork in a container to catch any drips as it thaws. Once fully thawed, cook as desired.
Cold Water Thaw
For faster thawing, place the frozen pulled pork in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes. Thaw time will vary based on amount. Thawed pork should be cooked immediately.
Microwave Thaw
To thaw in the microwave, place frozen pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish and microwave at 30% power. Remove and stir pork every few minutes. Once thawed, cook immediately.
Once thawed using one of these methods, the pulled pork can be heated and served just like the refrigerated version. Some options include:
- Microwave until heated through, 2-3 minutes for 1 pound
- Heat in skillet over medium until warmed, 5-10 minutes
- Add to slow cooker with sauce and cook on Low 2-3 hours
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes to warm
How to prepare canned/pouched pulled pork
Canned and pouched pulled pork is shelf-stable so no thawing or refrigeration is required. To prepare:
- Remove can or pouch from packaging and rinse under cool water to remove excess sodium.
- Transfer pulled pork and any juices to a microwave-safe dish. For canned, you’ll need to drain any excess liquid first.
- Microwave on High for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Stir well, shredding any large chunks of pork.
- Mix in your desired barbecue sauce or seasoning.
- Serve warm on sandwiches or baked potatoes.
Canned pulled pork can also be simmered in a skillet over medium for about 5 minutes to further warm and improve the texture.
Seasoning and Sauce Ideas
Prepackaged pulled pork takes well to many flavors. Consider mixing in one of these options:
- Barbecue sauce – Classic, bold, smoky, or spicy
- Teriyaki sauce – For an Asian flair
- Buffalo sauce – To make pulled pork Buffalo chicken sandwiches
- Jerk seasoning – For a Caribbean twist
- Cajun seasoning – Brings the flavor of NOLA
- Taco or fajita seasoning – For tacos or nachos
- Chimichurri sauce – Fresh herb flavor
- Honey & vinegar – For Carolina style
Try mixing in sautéed onions and peppers or pineapple for even more flavor options.
Serving Ideas
Prepackaged pulled pork can be used in all the same ways as homemade pulled pork. Get creative with these serving ideas:
Sandwiches
The classic! Pile pulled pork high on hamburger buns, Kaiser rolls, or potato rolls. Top with pickles, coleslaw, and more barbecue sauce.
Nachos
For easy loaded nachos, top tortilla chips with pulled pork, shredded cheese, beans, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes make the perfect vessel for pulled pork. Top with shredded cheese, chives, and ranch or sour cream.
Tacos
Stuff warm corn or flour tortillas with pulled pork carnitas. Add all your favorite taco toppings.
Pizza
Use pulled pork as the protein topping for barbecue chicken style pizzas. Add red onion and cilantro for freshness.
Casseroles
Incorporate pulled pork into easy casserole bakes. Mix with mac and cheese or stuff into cornbread muffins.
Salads
For a protein-packed salad, spoon pulled pork over mixed greens, shredded cabbage, beans, corn, and barbecue ranch dressing.
Storage
Store any leftovers of prepackaged pulled pork covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days. Reheat leftovers in the microwave until hot, adding extra sauce to restore moisture as needed.
Pulled pork also freezes very well for longer term storage. Divide leftovers into portion sizes in freezer bags or containers. Thaw before reheating.
Conclusion
Prepackaged pulled pork provides a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic barbecue dish any night of the week. Look for it at your grocery store in the refrigerated, frozen, or canned/pouched sections. Simply heat through, flavor it with your favorite sauces and seasonings, and pile it high on buns, nachos, tacos, salads, and more. Pre-made pulled pork helps you skip the long smoking and shredding process for delicious anytime barbecue in minutes.