These pulled pork sandwiches are a real treat! Tender, slow-cooked pork is piled high on soft buns, making them super juicy and tasty. Add your favorite barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
Honestly, a little napkin is needed for these delicious guys! I love making extra so I can enjoy them during the week. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for pulled pork because it has the right amount of fat for flavor and moisture. If pork shoulder is unavailable, you can use pork butt or even beef chuck roast.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can replace it with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, though it may slightly alter the taste.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work, or you can use a bit more cayenne pepper for heat.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce for convenience or try making a homemade version for a personal touch. Make it tangy by adding apple cider vinegar or sweeten it with honey.
Why is Slow Cooking Important for Pulled Pork?
Slow cooking is key to getting that tender texture we love in pulled pork. The low and slow method breaks down the collagen in the meat, making it melt in your mouth. Here’s how to do it right:
- Set your slow cooker to low heat and give it plenty of time to cook for 8-10 hours. You can adjust the time based on your cooker.
- If you’re using the oven, make sure it’s tightly covered in foil to retain moisture. This avoids drying out the meat.
- Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches at least 195°F (90°C) for shreddable results.
I recommend letting the pork rest for a few minutes after it’s done cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a delicious sandwich!
How to Make Delicious Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for some heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 sandwich buns (soft and slightly sweet, like brioche or potato buns)
- 2 cups coleslaw (prepared or homemade with cabbage, carrots, and creamy dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, followed by 8-10 hours of cooking time in a slow cooker or 6-8 hours in the oven. After that, it’s just a matter of assembling the sandwiches, so plan for a total of around 8-10 hours, mostly hands-off while the pork cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). This mix will give the pork incredible flavor!
2. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture generously all over the pork shoulder. Make sure it gets into all the nooks and crannies! For the best flavor, let the pork sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, refrigerate it overnight to really let those flavors sink in.
3. Cook the Pork:
Now, preheat your slow cooker to low, or your oven to about 225°F (110°C). Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker or a roasting pan covered with foil if using the oven. Cook the pork low and slow—about 8-10 hours in the slow cooker or 6-8 hours in the oven—until it becomes very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork apart, discarding any large pieces of fat that you find.
5. Mix in the Barbecue Sauce:
Take your barbecue sauce and stir it into the shredded pork until everything is well combined and coated. The sauce adds that delicious, tangy finish we all love!
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
If you like, toast the sandwich buns lightly for extra texture. Pile a generous amount of pulled pork onto each bun and top with a scoop of coleslaw.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pulled pork sandwiches immediately, with pickles and extra barbecue sauce on the side if you like. These sandwiches are perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner.
Enjoy your juicy, tender pulled pork sandwiches with creamy coleslaw—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes, while pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content, you can also use pork butt or beef chuck roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the spice rub or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce when mixing it with the shredded pork. You can also serve with pickled jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Pulled Pork in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled pork a day or two ahead of time. Just store the cooked and shredded pork in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of barbecue sauce if needed to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair perfectly with coleslaw, pickles, or baked beans on the side. You could also serve them with potato chips or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
