These pulled pork sandwiches are a tasty treat! The tender, juicy pork is slow-cooked with yummy barbecue sauce, making each bite a mouthwatering delight.
Honestly, who can resist that tender meat piled high on a soft bun? I always add extra sauce because, well, you can never have too much! 🌟
Making pulled pork is super easy—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for pulled pork because it has the right amount of fat for tenderness. If you can’t find it, chuck roast works as a good substitute—just remember it may cook a bit differently.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce, but if you want to make it homemade, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. For a lighter option, try a vinegar-based sauce.
Coleslaw: I love adding coleslaw for that fresh crunch. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can use a lighter dressing or even a simple mix of cabbage and a bit of lemon juice.
How Do I Ensure My Pulled Pork is Tender and Juicy?
Cooking pulled pork to perfection relies on time and low heat. Here’s how to nail it:
- Season your pork shoulder generously with the spice mix for full flavor.
- Low and slow is key! Use a slow cooker at low for 8-10 hours—trust me, it’s worth the wait.
- After cooking, let the meat rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep juices inside.
- Mix in some of the cooking juices after shredding; this keeps it moist and enhances flavor.
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For Assembly:
- 8 sandwich buns, split and toasted
- 1 to 2 cups coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, but you’ll need to let the pork cook for a total of 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high in the slow cooker. After cooking, assemble your sandwiches in about 10 minutes. So, in total, plan for around 8-10 hours and 25 minutes of active time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix the paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper together. This flavorful blend is what will give your pulled pork a delicious kick! Rub this spice blend all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
2. Slow Cook the Pork:
Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Cover it up and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. You want the meat to be very tender and easy to shred with a fork.
3. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or large plate. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces—this should be super easy if it’s cooked right!
4. Mix with Juices and Sauce:
Pour about half a cup of the cooking juices into the shredded pork to keep it nice and moist. Then, add the barbecue sauce and stir everything together until well combined and juicy!
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To build your delicious sandwiches, pile generous amounts of pulled pork onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a good scoop of coleslaw for added crunch and creaminess—this is key!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Cover with the top bun and serve immediately. If you like, you can offer extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who want an extra drizzle.
This recipe results in tender, flavorful pulled pork with a tangy barbecue kick, balanced by the fresh crunch of creamy coleslaw—all nestled inside soft toasted buns. Enjoy your classic Southern comfort food delight!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork, you can also use pork butt or even a chuck roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different cuts.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Season the pork as directed, then place it in a roasting pan with a lid or covered tightly with foil. Cook for about 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and shreds easily. Just check it occasionally and add a bit of liquid if it seems too dry.
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 also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with sides like baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, or even corn on the cob. They’re perfect for a backyard barbecue or any gathering!
