Pulled pork sandwiches are a tasty treat! They feature tender, slow-cooked pork that’s shredded and packed into soft buns. It’s hard to resist the delicious mix of flavors!
With a tasty barbecue sauce drizzled on top, these sandwiches are perfect for gatherings. I love serving them with a side of coleslaw—it balances everything out just right!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut has a good amount of fat, which keeps the meat moist while cooking. If you’re looking for something leaner, you could try pork loin, but it may not be as tender. I love using bone-in shoulder for added flavor!
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade sauce. There’s so much variety—from sweet to tangy! If you’re avoiding sugar, try a low-sugar barbecue sauce or make a simple mix of vinegar and spices.
Coleslaw: Traditional coleslaw adds crunch to the sandwiches. If you’re short on time, store-bought is fine. For a twist, try a vinegar-based slaw instead of creamy for a lighter option!
How Can I Achieve Tender Pulled Pork?
The key to tender pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. This may take time, but trust me, it’s worth it! Here are some essential steps:
- When preparing the pork, rub the spice mix in well to maximize flavor.
- Searing the pork before slow cooking helps lock in juices and adds a lovely crust.
- Cook it for a long time at low temperatures—whether using a slow cooker or oven. Plan ahead!
- Always shred the pork once it’s cool enough to handle; it’s easier that way, and the meat will fall apart beautifully!
Enjoy making your pulled pork sandwiches! They’re perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just because!
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 8 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time. If using a slow cooker, plan for about 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. If cooking in the oven, it will take about 3-4 hours. So, make sure to plan accordingly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s well coated. This will give your pork lots of flavor!
2. Sear the Meat:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step creates a delicious crust and deep flavor!
3. Slow Cook:
Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of a slow cooker or pot. Set the seared pork shoulder on top, then pour in the chicken broth or water and add the 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
4. Cook the Pork:
If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender and pulls apart easily. If using an oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil and cook for about 3-4 hours until tender.
5. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the cooker or pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, removing any large pieces of fat you find.
6. Mix with Sauce:
Return the shredded pork to the juices in the cooker or pot. Stir well to coat the meat in the flavorful sauce. This is where it gets super delicious!
7. Assemble Sandwiches:
If you’d like, you can toast the hamburger buns lightly. Pile the pulled pork generously on the bottom half of each bun. Add coleslaw on top for that perfect crunch, then cover with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your pulled pork sandwiches immediately, with some extra barbecue sauce on the side. They make a great snack or hearty meal, especially when paired with fries or potato salad!
Enjoy your delicious, juicy pulled pork sandwiches with tangy coleslaw and smoky barbecue flavors!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its fat content and tenderness, you can also use pork loin for a leaner option. Just remember that it might not be as juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in the oven! Simply follow the instructions for searing the meat and then cook it in a covered pot at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours. Just ensure it’s well covered for moisture!
What Type of Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any barbecue sauce you love! Sweet, tangy, or smoky varieties all work beautifully. For a twist, try a homemade version with your favorite spices!
How Should I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or barbecue sauce if it seems dry. Enjoy it with more sandwiches or as a topping for baked potatoes!
