Tender, slow-cooked pulled pork coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun with crunchy coleslaw. This classic American sandwich is packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for backyard cookouts, game days, or a hearty family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Slow-Cooked Perfection: The pork becomes incredibly tender after hours of slow cooking.
- Smoky and Tangy Flavor: A blend of spices, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar creates the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy.
- Easy to Make: The slow cooker does all the work, requiring minimal effort.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored and used in tacos, wraps, or rice bowls.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to serve in sandwiches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 8 sandwich buns
- 1 1/2 cups coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the pork.
- Place the pork in a slow cooker. Add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to absorb more flavor.
- Toast the sandwich buns, then pile on the pulled pork. Top with coleslaw if desired.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce and a side of fries or pickles.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicier Version: Increase the cayenne pepper and add a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ mixture.
- Smokier Flavor: Use a smoked BBQ sauce or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
- Oven Method: Bake the seasoned pork in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 4-5 hours until tender.
- Instant Pot Version: Cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes.
- Honey BBQ Twist: Add 2 tbsp of honey for a sweeter glaze.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of BBQ sauce or broth to keep it moist.
FAQs
1. What’s the best cut of pork for pulled pork?
Pork shoulder (pork butt) is the best choice because it has the right amount of fat and connective tissue, which makes it tender when slow-cooked.
2. Can I use a different protein instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute with chicken thighs, beef chuck roast, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option.
3. Do I have to use a slow cooker?
No, you can use an oven or Instant Pot (see variations above).
4. What type of BBQ sauce works best?
A smoky, tangy BBQ sauce works best, but you can use a sweet, spicy, or vinegar-based sauce depending on your preference.
5. How can I make my pulled pork even juicier?
Let the shredded pork sit in the slow cooker juices for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, pulled pork tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
7. What toppings go well with BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
Coleslaw, pickles, sliced jalapeños, crispy fried onions, and extra BBQ sauce all work well.
8. Can I make this recipe without BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can use a vinegar-based or mustard-based sauce for a different regional twist.
9. What sides go well with pulled pork sandwiches?
Coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, mac and cheese, fries, or cornbread are great options.
10. Can I make this into a pulled pork bowl instead of a sandwich?
Absolutely! Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a delicious pulled pork bowl.
Conclusion
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, full of smoky flavor, and perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a summer cookout, or meal prepping for the week, this slow-cooked pulled pork will be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Southern barbecue at home!
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BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Tender, slow-cooked pulled pork coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun with crunchy coleslaw.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 8 sandwich buns
- 1 1/2 cups coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne. Rub the seasoning all over the pork.
- Place the pork in a slow cooker. Add BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Remove pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
- Toast the sandwich buns, then pile on the pulled pork. Top with coleslaw if desired.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce and a side of fries or pickles.
Notes
- For a smoky kick, add a dash of liquid smoke to the slow cooker.
- If you prefer crispy edges, broil the shredded pork on a baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with sweet potato fries, baked beans, or a classic potato salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American, BBQ
