BBQ Pork Cheddar Bay Dish

This Southern-inspired pulled pork casserole transforms leftover BBQ into a comforting one-dish meal that will have your family scraping the pan clean. The combination of smoky pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and those irresistible Cheddar Bay biscuits creates a hearty dinner that feels like a special occasion without the fuss.

I first created this recipe when I needed to stretch some leftover pulled pork from our weekend cookout. My husband declared it better than the original BBQ, and now it's requested at least twice a month in our house.

• Pulled pork. The star of the show provides rich smoky flavor. Leftover homemade is best but store-bought works beautifully too.
• BBQ sauce. Adds tang and moisture. I recommend a slightly sweet sauce to balance the savory elements.
• Ranch Style beans. These Texas-style beans bring depth and hearty texture. Look for the original flavor with the distinctive speckled label.
• Chili powder. Creates warm background heat without overwhelming. Fresh chili powder makes a noticeable difference.
• Garlic powder. Infuses the casserole with savory notes. Always check freshness as it loses potency over time.
• Salt and pepper. Simple seasonings that bring everything together. I prefer kosher salt for better flavor control.
• Shredded cheddar cheese. Creates that irresistible gooey layer. Sharp cheddar provides the most flavor impact.
• Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix. The secret weapon that makes this casserole memorable. The garlic butter topping is non-negotiable.
• Water. Activates the biscuit mix. Use cold water for the best biscuit texture.
• Melted butter. Transforms the biscuit topping into golden perfection. Use salted butter for enhanced flavor.

How To Make Pulled Pork Casserole

Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before baking. Thoroughly spray your 9x13 baking dish with nonstick spray making sure to coat the corners where sticking typically occurs. A glass baking dish works best for even heating.

Create the BBQ base

In a large mixing bowl combine your pulled pork with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Add the chili powder and garlic powder gently folding to distribute the spices. Fold in the entire can of Ranch Style beans including their sauce which adds incredible flavor. Taste and adjust salt and pepper remembering the cheese will add saltiness later.

Layer the casserole

Transfer your pork mixture to the prepared baking dish spreading it into an even layer. Cover completely with 1½ cups of shredded cheddar allowing some to fall into the edges where it will create crispy cheese corners that everyone fights over.

Prepare the biscuit topping

In a separate bowl combine the biscuit mix with cold water and the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese. Mix just until combined as overmixing will make tough biscuits. The dough should be slightly sticky but holdable. Set aside the seasoning packet for the final touch.

Top the casserole

Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon drop portions of biscuit dough across the cheese layer. With a offset spatula or back of spoon gently spread the dough to create a mostly even layer. Leave some texture rather than perfectly smooth for more crispy edges.

Bake to perfection

Place the casserole in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Watch carefully in the last few minutes as the biscuits can quickly go from golden to overdone. The casserole is ready when the edges bubble and the biscuits have turned golden brown.

Add the finishing touch

Mix the reserved seasoning packet with melted butter until well blended. While the casserole is still hot brush this mixture generously over the biscuit layer letting it seep slightly into the crevices. If desired sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

The Ranch Style beans are my secret ingredient that nobody expects but everyone loves. My grandmother always added them to her BBQ dishes claiming they were the difference between good and great BBQ. The first time I served this casserole at a family gathering my uncle who never compliments anything asked for the recipe.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights because you can prep it entirely in advance. Assemble everything except the biscuit topping and refrigerate covered for up to two days. When ready to cook mix up the biscuit topping fresh spread it over the cold casserole and add about 5 minutes to the baking time. The contrast between the hot bubbling base and fresh biscuits makes it taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredient Substitutions

No pulled pork on hand? This recipe works beautifully with shredded chicken rotisserie chicken or even ground beef cooked with taco seasoning for a Mexican twist. If Ranch Style beans are unavailable substitute pinto beans mixed with a tablespoon of BBQ sauce and half teaspoon of cumin. For a different flavor profile try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar and add a can of diced green chiles to the meat mixture. When I am out of the Red Lobster mix I use regular biscuit mix with a teaspoon of garlic powder and half cup of cheese mixed in.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole shines when paired with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides welcome freshness. For Sunday dinner I serve it alongside coleslaw and pickles just like you would with traditional BBQ. If serving for guests add a platter of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli to round out the meal. My family loves it with corn on the cob in summer or glazed carrots in winter. For an extra special touch offer additional warm BBQ sauce on the side for drizzling.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade pulled pork for this casserole?

Absolutely! Both leftover homemade pulled pork or store-bought pulled pork work perfectly in this casserole. If using homemade that isn't already seasoned, you might want to add a bit more BBQ sauce and spices to taste.

→ What can I substitute for Ranch Style beans?

If you can't find Ranch Style beans, you can substitute pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans. For a similar flavor profile, add a bit of extra chili powder and a dash of cumin to your regular beans.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pork mixture and add it to the baking dish with cheese up to 24 hours ahead. Store in the refrigerator, covered. When ready to bake, prepare the biscuit topping fresh, add it to the cold casserole, and increase baking time by about 5-10 minutes.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This hearty casserole works well with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables on the side. The dish is quite filling on its own, so lighter sides work best to balance the meal.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

The pulled pork base freezes well, but the biscuit topping is best when freshly baked. For freezing, prepare only the pork mixture, freeze in a baking dish, then thaw and add the cheese and freshly made biscuit topping before baking.

→ How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the biscuit topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure everything is properly heated through.