When it comes to comfort food that impresses both the taste buds and the soul, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are hard to beat. Tender, smoky meat wrapped in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with crunchy slaw, and served on a pillowy bun... Every bite is perfection. Whether you're whipping these up for a backyard BBQ, game day, or a lazy Sunday dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. And the best part? It’s easy enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to wow seasoned cooks.
Get your apron ready and let's make magic happen!
Ingredients
To make these drool-worthy BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here's everything to gather before you begin:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 6 sandwich buns (brioche buns work wonderfully)
- 2 cups coleslaw (pre-made or homemade)
- Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
- Pickles (optional but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pork
Start by preparing the pork shoulder. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick. Combine all the spices (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl, then rub it generously onto all sides of the pork.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 2–3 minutes on each side until it’s browned. This step locks in flavor and gives the meat a lovely crust.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
Place your seared pork in a slow cooker. Pour in the chicken or beef broth and half the BBQ sauce, ensuring the pork is evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is fall-apart tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Shred and Sauce
Using two forks, shred the pork directly in the slow cooker. The juices in the pot will help keep the meat moist and flavorful. Stir in the remaining BBQ sauce for that irresistible tangy, smoky kick.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
To build the ultimate BBQ pulled pork sandwich, split your sandwich buns in half and toast them lightly (optional but adds a great texture). Pile on the pulled pork, add a generous scoop of coleslaw on top, and drizzle with more BBQ sauce. If you love a zesty crunch, don’t skip the pickles!
Customization & Serving Tips
- Make it spicy - Add jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
- Switch the bread - Swap buns for Hawaiian rolls or baguette slices for a twist.
- Side dish ideas - Pair with sweet potato fries, baked beans, or a simple garden salad.
- Try different slaws - Experiment with different slaw recipes, like a vinegar-based slaw or one with apple slices for a touch of sweetness.
- Freeze leftovers - Got extra pulled pork? Freeze it! It reheats beautifully and works great in tacos, nachos, or quesadillas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This BBQ pulled pork sandwich recipe hits all the right notes. It’s messy in the best way, smoky, tender, and versatile. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, letting you kick back while your kitchen fills with mouth-watering aromas. Whether you're feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite.
Next time you're craving a hearty, finger-licking sandwich, you know exactly what to make. Enjoy your pulled pork masterpiece!
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