Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic for this dish, any sturdy pasta works well. Penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine all play nicely with the sauce and pulled pork.

What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?

Go with your favorite—seriously, it makes all the difference. Use a style you love, whether it’s sweet and sticky, tangy, or has a kick of heat. If you enjoy Memphis-style, look for a sauce with a bit of tang and a nice balance of sweetness and spice.

How do I make pulled pork if I don’t have any on hand?

You can use store-bought pulled pork for speed, or make your own in a slow cooker with pork shoulder, a bit of spice, and your favorite barbecue sauce. Shredded rotisserie chicken also works in a pinch.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! This pasta is easily made ahead—just prepare as directed, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce, and garnish with reserved pork and sauce just before serving for the freshest flavor and look.

Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti Recipe

Description

Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti is a unique fusion of Southern barbecue flavors with classic Italian pasta. Tender pulled pork is tossed with spaghetti in a smoky, tangy tomato-barbecue sauce for a comforting and hearty main course that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce

14 oz. diced tomatoes
28 oz. tomato sauce
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for garnish

Pasta and Meat

16 oz. pulled pork, reserve some for garnish
12 oz. spaghetti, cooked

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Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced red onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they start to brown and become soft, about 6-8 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, and 1 cup of barbecue sauce to the pot. Stir well to fully combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine Pork and Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti and pulled pork to the pot with the sauce. Toss everything together using tongs or a large spoon, ensuring the pasta and pork are evenly coated with the barbecue sauce mixture.
Serve and Garnish: Divide the barbecue spaghetti among serving plates. Garnish with additional pulled pork and a drizzle of barbecue sauce, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

You can use store-bought or homemade pulled pork for this recipe.
For a smokier flavor, use a smoky barbecue sauce.
This dish can be made ahead and reheated; the flavors improve as it sits.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6th of recipe
Calories: 540
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 72g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 66mg