These pulled pork sandwiches are simply tasty and super filling! Slow-cooked pork becomes tender and flavorful, piled high on soft buns. Add your favorite barbecue sauce for an extra zing!
Who doesn’t love a messy sandwich that leaves sauce on your face? 😂 I like to serve mine with a side of coleslaw for that perfect crunch. It’s a delicious meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect because it’s fatty and tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you can use a pork butt or picnic roast instead. These will also yield great results.
Spices: The spice mix is crucial for flavor! If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you’ll miss that smoky taste. Chili powder can be swapped for your favorite spice blend. Use what you have!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for this recipe! For something healthier, try using homemade sauce or a low-sugar brand. Some people even like to use mustard-based sauces for a different twist.
Buns: Brioche buns add richness, but don’t hesitate to try whole wheat or gluten-free buns for a healthier option. They can alter the flavor a bit, but still wonderful!
What’s the Best Way to Shred Pork?
Shredding pork can sometimes feel tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to let it cool slightly after cooking, so it’s easier to handle. Once it’s cool, here’s how to shred it:
- Use two forks, one to hold the meat and the other to pull it apart.
- Start shredding in the direction of the grain for best results, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- For a quicker method, you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment – it shreds the pork quickly!
Once shredded, mix it back into those delicious cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful before serving. Enjoy!
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 smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 sandwich buns (brioche or soft hamburger buns work well)
- Coleslaw for topping:
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus cooking time of 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. It’s a great option to throw together in the morning and have ready for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This will create a flavorful spice rub for your pork shoulder. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, making sure to press it in well to coat the meat.
2. Cook the Pork:
Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork is ready when it’s tender and shreds easily with a fork.
3. Prepare the Coleslaw:
While the pork cooks, prepare the coleslaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and purple cabbage and carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir the dressing into the cabbage mixture until everything is well combined. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
4. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large platter or cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, pulling it apart.
5. Mix with Barbecue Sauce:
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the cooking juices and barbecue sauce until everything is evenly coated.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
If you like, toast the sandwich buns lightly. Pile a generous portion of pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with a big spoonful of coleslaw. If desired, add pickles before placing the top bun over the sandwich.
7. Serve:
Serve these delicious sandwiches immediately, with extra barbecue sauce on the side for a tasty drizzle.
Enjoy your mouth-watering, juicy pulled pork sandwiches filled with smoky flavors and a delightful crunch from the coleslaw!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness and fat content, you can also use pork butt or a picnic roast as substitutes. Just ensure they have enough marbling to stay juicy during cooking.
Can I Cook This in an Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can braise the pork in the oven. Preheat to 300°F (150°C), place the seasoned pork in a covered Dutch oven with a bit of liquid (like broth or apple juice), and cook for about 4-5 hours, or until tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the coleslaw a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
