Pulled Pork Pickle Poppers Easy Bbq Snack

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a celebration of leftovers, which I’m all about. If you’ve got a big batch of pulled pork just sitting there, this is your chance to give it a new life. The dill pickles provide that perfect tanginess to cut through the richness of the pork and cream cheese. Plus, wrapping everything in bacon?

That’s just a no-brainer. It adds that crispy texture and smoky flavor that ties the whole thing together. Trust me, these little poppers are sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up some Pulled Pork Pickle Poppers:

• 6 whole dill pickles
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened slightly
• 1 cup leftover pulled pork
• 6 slices bacon
• Spicy Garlicky Cajun Honey Rub (or your favorite BBQ seasoning)
• Your favorite BBQ sauce
• Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for serving

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You can get creative here. If you don’t have pulled pork, other meats or even veggies could work, but I’m telling you, the pulled pork is where it’s at.

How to Make It

Let’s get cooking! First things first, preheat your smoker to 375°F. You want that nice, even heat to crisp up the bacon while infusing everything with that delicious smoky flavor.

Now, grab those dill pickles. Slice each one in half lengthwise, and then scoop out the seeds to create what I like to call a “pickle canoe.” It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done. Make sure to pat them dry a bit so they don't get too soggy. No one likes a soggy popper.

Next, fill each pickle half with a generous scoop of cream cheese. I usually go for a nice, thick layer. Then, pile on the leftover pulled pork. Don’t be shy; this is where it really comes together. You want every bite to be packed with flavor.

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Now, wrap each stuffed pickle with a slice of bacon. I like to tuck the ends underneath to keep everything snug and secure. Once they’re all wrapped up, sprinkle on your Spicy Garlicky Cajun Honey Rub or whatever BBQ seasoning you prefer. This adds a kick of flavor to the bacon, which is never a bad thing.

Place those beauties in your preheated smoker and let them cook for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them - everyone’s smoker is a little different, and you want that bacon to be cooked to your liking. If you like it crispy, you might want to add a few extra minutes.

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When they’re almost done, brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the top of each popper and let them cook for another 5 minutes. This helps set the glaze and makes each bite even more decadent.

Once you’ve pulled them out of the smoker, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it. They’re going to be hot, and you don’t want to burn your mouth on that first bite.

Tips / Variations

If you want to mix things up, think about changing your filling. You could use shredded chicken, or even a veggie mix if you want to keep it lighter. Just make sure whatever you choose pairs well with the cream cheese.

I also like to experiment with different sauces. Sometimes I’ll make a spicy ranch for dipping, or even a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. It really depends on the mood I’m in.

If you happen to have any leftover pickles, don’t throw them away! Chop them up and mix them into a dip or salad. Waste not, want not, right?

Serving Ideas

These Pulled Pork Pickle Poppers are a fantastic appetizer for any cookout or game day gathering. They’re great served hot, but you can also put them out at room temperature. Just make sure to have plenty of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

You could pair them with some coleslaw or potato salad if you want to round out your spread. They also go well with a nice cold drink - maybe a beer or a sweet tea - just to wash it all down.

Closing

So there you have it, Pulled Pork Pickle Poppers that are sure to become a favorite in your BBQ repertoire. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and a great way to use up leftover pulled pork. Give them a try next time you fire up the smoker; I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!

Pulled Pork Pickle Poppers Easy BBQ Snack

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 6 whole dill pickles
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened slightly
• 1 cup leftover pulled pork
• 6 slices bacon
• Spicy Garlicky Cajun Honey Rub from TFTI, or your favorite BBQ seasoning
• Your favorite BBQ sauce
• Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving

Instructions

• Preheat your smoker to 375°F. Slice each dill pickle in half lengthwise and scrape out the center to create a pickle canoe.
• Fill each pickle half with cream cheese, then top with leftover pulled pork. Wrap each stuffed pickle with a slice of bacon and season the outside with Spicy Garlicky Cajun Honey Rub or your favorite BBQ seasoning.
• Place the pickle poppers in the preheated smoker and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking. Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce and cook for another 5 minutes to set the glaze.
• Remove from the smoker and let rest for about 10 minutes to cool slightly. Serve hot with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.