Imagine the rich smokiness of slow-cooked BBQ pork, the sweetness of pineapple, and the creamy, cheesy goodness of enchiladas—all in one bite. These Hawaiian BBQ Pork Enchiladas are the perfect mash-up of Tex-Mex comfort and tropical flavors. The combination of tender, saucy pork wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in melted cheese makes this dish irresistible. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a weekend get-together, these enchiladas will be a hit!
Hawaiian BBQ Pork Enchiladas
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 6 hours hrs
Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian, Mexican
For the Pork Filling
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, boneless
- 1 cup Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Enchiladas
- 8 flour tortillas 8-inch size
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple drained
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 cup enchilada sauce mild or medium
- 1/4 cup sour cream for garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced (for garnish)
Step 1: Cook the Pork
Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Add Hawaiian BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreddable. (For a pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for 50 minutes with a 10-minute natural release.)
Shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lay out the tortillas and fill each with a scoop of shredded pork, a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese, a spoonful of crushed pineapple, and some red onion.
Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm!
Perfect Pairings
- Drink: A pineapple margarita or a cold glass of horchata
- Side Dish: Coconut rice or a fresh mango salsa
- Dessert: Grilled pineapple with a drizzle of honey
FAQs
1. What cut of pork should I use?
Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) works best because it has enough fat to stay juicy when slow-cooked.
2. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes! Just make sure it's a Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce with a touch of sweetness from pineapple or brown sugar.
3. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, but warm them up first to prevent cracking when rolling.