These pulled pork sandwiches are a treat! Slow-cooked, tender pork mixed with a zesty sauce piled high on soft buns will have you coming back for seconds.
I love serving them with crunchy coleslaw on top for an extra bite. Honestly, who can resist a sandwich that drips with sweet and spicy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is marbled with fat, making it perfect for slow cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a pork loin can work but won’t be as juicy. I love sticking with shoulder for maximum flavor!
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a deep, smoky flavor to the pork. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can be used. Keep in mind, chili powder is a little spicier!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade if you like! You can swap it out for honey or mustard for a different flavor profile. I personally enjoy a tangy vinegar-based sauce alongside the sweeter varieties.
Coleslaw: For the slaw, feel free to mix different veggies like broccoli slaw or kale. You can even use store-bought coleslaw to save time. I often add green onions for extra crunch!
How Do I Get the Pork Just Right?
The key to perfect pulled pork is the slow cooking process. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use a slow cooker for even cooking. If using an oven, cook at 225°F in a covered dish to prevent drying out.
- Don’t rush! Cook for 8-10 hours on low. This lets the connective tissue break down for tender meat.
- When shredding, let the pork rest first. This helps retain juices!
Keeping an eye on moisture is crucial. Adding apple cider vinegar helps the meat stay juicy. Enjoy these tips, and your pulled pork will be fantastic every time! 🥪
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 8 sandwich buns, split and lightly toasted
- 2 cups coleslaw (prepared or homemade)
For Homemade Coleslaw (optional):
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 8 to 10 hours of slow cooking. After that, it takes roughly 15 more minutes to shred the meat and assemble the sandwiches. So, overall, you’re looking at around 8 to 10 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious pulled pork sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This is going to give your pork a flavorful kick!
2. Season the Pork:
Take your pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. Next, rub the spice mixture all over the meat, making sure it’s well-coated. This will help develop that tasty crust while it cooks.
3. Cook the Pork:
Put the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar around the pork to keep everything moist. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 8 to 10 hours, until the pork is super tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it in a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Throw away any large pieces of fat that you find.
5. Mix with Sauce:
Add the barbecue sauce to the shredded pork, stirring everything together. Feel free to add extra sauce if you like your sandwich saucy!
6. Make the Coleslaw (if making from scratch):
In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the vegetables and mix everything until well-coated.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Grab your toasted sandwich buns and pile a good amount of pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Top it off with some delicious coleslaw, and then place the top half of the bun on.
8. Serve:
Serve your pulled pork sandwiches immediately while they’re warm and gooey! Don’t forget to have extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches topped with crunchy, creamy coleslaw. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time, as chicken cooks faster than pork.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper in the spice rub or mixing in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before combining it with the pork. Start with a little, and adjust to taste!
What if I Don’t Have a Slow Cooker?
No problem! You can make this recipe in the oven. Preheat it to 225°F (107°C) and use a covered Dutch oven or a roasting pan. Cook the pork for about 6-8 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shredded.
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. Give it a good stir before serving for the best texture.
