If you’re craving something smoky, cheesy, meaty, and indulgent all in one skillet—this Monster BBQ Pulled Pork Bacon Cheese Loaded Skillet is the answer. With layers of pulled pork, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, sweet corn, and jalapeños, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.
Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a no-fuss dinner, this recipe brings big flavor with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
The Inspiration Behind This Skillet Recipe
Loaded skillets have become popular thanks to their hearty portions and bold combinations. They’re essentially a party in a pan—perfect for sharing, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
This version draws inspiration from BBQ joints, nachos, and pub grub, combining them into a single cast iron skillet dish that’s designed to impress. The mix of textures—chewy pulled pork, crunchy chips, creamy cheese, and crisp bacon—is what makes it unforgettable.
Ingredients
To make this loaded skillet, gather the following:
- 2 cups pulled pork (preferably with BBQ sauce)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 2 cups kettle-cooked potato chips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or reserved bacon fat
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sour cream, extra BBQ sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, reserving a tablespoon of the bacon drippings in the pan.
2. Sauté the Onion
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
3. Mix in the Pulled Pork and Corn
Stir in the pulled pork and corn, combining everything well. Allow the mixture to heat through for another 3 to 4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Layer the Cheese and Toppings
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the crispy bacon and sliced jalapeños. If desired, drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce on top for added flavor.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
6. Serve
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve hot with potato chips for scooping or on the side for crunch. You can also garnish with sour cream, chopped scallions, or additional BBQ sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan cleanup
- Fast and crowd-pleasing
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
- Satisfying enough for a full meal or a shareable appetizer
Customization Ideas
This skillet recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some great ways to adapt it:
- Swap the pulled pork for shredded BBQ chicken or brisket
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack
- Add black beans or bell peppers for more veggies
- Replace kettle chips with tortilla chips for a nacho twist
- For a vegetarian version, use meatless pulled pork and plant-based bacon
Expert Tips
- Use an oven-safe cast iron skillet for the best crispy texture
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to settle
- Shred your own cheese from a block for the smoothest melt
- Slice jalapeños thinly to control the heat level
- Serve directly in the skillet for a rustic and convenient presentation
Ideal Pairings
This hearty skillet dish pairs well with:
- Coleslaw
- Pickles or pickle spears
- Sweet baked beans
- Green salad
- Sweet tea, lemonade, or a smoky beer
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers can be stored and reheated easily:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through
- Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes
- Refresh with a bit of fresh cheese and chips before serving again
Note: Chips will soften in storage, so consider adding a fresh handful when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes. Assemble the skillet ahead of time (without baking) and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed.
Is it very spicy?
The heat level is up to you. Omit the jalapeños for a mild version or use pickled peppers for a tangy flavor.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use your favorite vegetarian pulled meat and plant-based bacon. There are plenty of delicious alternatives available.
How can I serve this at a party?
Bake and serve directly in the skillet with a large spoon and a bowl of chips nearby for easy scooping.
Final Thoughts
The Monster BBQ Pulled Pork Bacon Cheese Loaded Skillet is more than just a dish—it’s a flavor-packed experience. Every bite delivers smoky BBQ, salty bacon, rich cheese, and bold toppings, making it the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even late-night snacks, this skillet is a celebration of everything delicious in one pan. Make it, serve it, and watch it disappear.
For more delightful recipes and detailed cooking tips, be sure to visit our website where you can explore a wide range of dishes designed to inspire your culinary creativity!