BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a beloved classic in American cuisine, perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or a summer cookout. The succulent, tender pulled pork combined with a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, and served on a soft, pillowy bun creates the ultimate comfort food experience. The secret to a perfect BBQ pulled pork is slow-cooking the pork until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. The result is a flavorful, juicy pork filling that’s smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, all balanced by the richness of the barbecue sauce. Whether you’re making it in a slow cooker, oven, or on the grill, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are incredibly easy to prepare and always leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re serving them for a family meal, a party, or just craving a flavorful bite, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how the slow-cooked pork absorbs the smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, creating a taste that’s full of depth and complexity. The best part is that the recipe is incredibly versatile – you can use store-bought barbecue sauce for ease or make your own for a more personalized touch. The pork is tender, juicy, and rich in flavor, and when paired with the soft, fluffy bun, each bite is a combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, tangy, or spicy barbecue, this recipe allows you to adjust the sauce to your liking. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are not only easy to make but they’re also great for feeding a crowd, making them perfect for parties, picnics, and weekend gatherings. The combination of smoky meat, creamy coleslaw, and the perfect sandwich bun creates a well-balanced dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion (coarsely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade, to taste)
- Hamburger buns (for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
- Pickles (optional, for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by prepping the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat, leaving a small amount to enhance the flavor while cooking. Pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure it sears properly.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors and creates a nice crust on the outside of the meat.
Step 3: Once the pork is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Transfer the seared pork, onions, and garlic to a slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth over the meat, and add the brown sugar. Stir to combine. The vinegar adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the pork, while the broth ensures the meat stays moist during cooking.
Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. If you’re short on time, you can cook the pork on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow is ideal for achieving the best texture.
Step 6: After the pork has cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any bones if using bone-in pork shoulder.
Step 7: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, and stir it into the juices for added flavor. If you prefer a saucier pulled pork, you can add extra barbecue sauce to the slow cooker and mix it in. Allow the pork to sit in the sauce for an additional 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Step 8: While the pork soaks in the sauce, lightly toast your hamburger buns. This step is optional, but toasting the buns adds a little crunch and helps prevent the bun from becoming soggy when the pulled pork is added.
Step 9: To assemble the sandwiches, place a generous portion of the shredded pulled pork on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with coleslaw, if desired, for added texture and freshness, and a few pickle slices for a tangy crunch.
Variation:
- Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork: Add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce to give the pulled pork an extra kick. You can also incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the spice rub to make the dish spicier.
- Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork: If you prefer a more pronounced smoky flavor, try using liquid smoke in place of the smoked paprika or grilling the pork shoulder before slow-cooking it. This will add a deeper smoky aroma and flavor to the final dish.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos: If you want to switch things up, serve the pulled pork in soft taco shells, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a fun variation that puts a new spin on the classic BBQ sandwich.
Cooking Notes:
- Slow Cooker Tips: For best results, use a bone-in pork shoulder, as the bone imparts more flavor. If you’re using boneless, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts cook a little faster.
- Resting Time: Let the pulled pork rest for about 10 minutes after shredding it to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork stays moist and flavorful.
- Barbecue Sauce: You can use store-bought barbecue sauce for convenience, but homemade barbecue sauce will elevate the dish. A classic vinegar-based sauce works particularly well for this recipe.
Serving Suggestions:
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. The classic option is to serve them on soft, toasted hamburger buns, but you can also serve them on brioche buns, sandwich rolls, or even toasted ciabatta. For a complete meal, pair the sandwiches with side dishes like baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob, or coleslaw. For a lighter option, serve the pulled pork on lettuce wraps instead of buns, making a great low-carb alternative. The sandwiches are also excellent for serving at large gatherings, barbecues, or tailgates, where they can be assembled and enjoyed as a filling and flavorful meal.
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: BBQ Pulled Pork is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the pork the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Reheat the pulled pork in a skillet or microwave and assemble the sandwiches right before serving.
- Coleslaw Choice: If you want to add extra texture and flavor, opt for a tangy vinegar-based coleslaw rather than a creamy one. The acidity in the coleslaw will balance out the richness of the pulled pork and barbecue sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes – 10 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 400-500 kcal per sandwich (depends on the size of the sandwich and the barbecue sauce used)
- Protein: 30-40 grams (from the pork)
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg (from barbecue sauce and pork)
FAQs:
- Can I make BBQ Pulled Pork without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can also make BBQ Pulled Pork in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and cook the pork in a covered Dutch oven or roasting pan for about 4-5 hours until tender. - How do I store leftover pulled pork?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra sauce if needed to keep it moist. - Can I freeze BBQ Pulled Pork?
Yes, you can freeze BBQ Pulled Pork for up to 3 months. Simply store it in a freezer-safe container, and reheat it when ready to serve. It’s perfect for making ahead and having a ready-to-go meal. - What type of pork is best for pulled pork?
Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is the best cut for pulled pork because it has a good amount of fat that helps keep the meat moist and tender during slow cooking.
Conclusion:
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a quintessential comfort food that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. With tender, slow-cooked pork, smoky barbecue sauce, and a soft bun, each bite is a delicious combination of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a must-try for anyone who loves great food.
