These pulled pork sandwiches are a treat! Tender, juicy pork is cooked low and slow until it falls apart, then piled high on soft buns with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Who doesn’t love a messy sandwich? Just grab some napkins and dig in! I often add a splash of coleslaw on top for that crunchy twist—yum!
Making pulled pork is easier than you think! Just season the pork, set it to cook, and let the flavors come together. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is best for pulled pork due to its marbling and fat content, which help it stay juicy. If pork shoulder isn’t available, you can use pork loin, but it may turn out a bit drier.
Spices: The spice mix adds amazing flavor. If you want a different twist, try using cayenne for heat, or swap smoked paprika with regular paprika if you prefer less smokiness.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce can make a big difference! For a lighter sauce, you can substitute with a homemade vinegar-based sauce. I usually opt for a sweet and tangy one.
Buns: Brioche buns are a favorite for their softness and slight sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat buns work great too!
How Do I Ensure My Pork is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding your pork is a fun part of the process! Here are some tips to get it right:
- Let the pork rest for about 10-15 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps keep the juices inside.
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat. Work against the grain of the meat for the best texture.
- If the pork is cooked properly, it should shred easily. If not, it may need a little more cooking time.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with tender, delicious pulled pork ready for your sandwiches!
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 garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 6 soft sandwich buns (brioche buns preferred)
For the Coleslaw Topping:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 4 to 5 hours in total. You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and then around 3 to 4 hours for cooking the pork in the oven. The coleslaw can be mixed while the pork cooks, making it a time-efficient meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pork:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will ensure the pork turns out tender and juicy! In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful dry rub.
2. Season the Pork:
Take the pork shoulder and rub the spice mix all over it. Make sure to cover it completely so that every bite is packed with flavor!
3. Roast the Pork:
Next, place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan or a Dutch oven. Cover it with a lid or some foil to keep the moisture in. Roast it in the oven for about 3 to 4 hours until the pork is so tender that it easily pulls apart with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells amazing!
4. Make the Coleslaw:
While the pork cooks, let’s prepare that delicious coleslaw! In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture, toss to combine, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
5. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. It should be super tender and easy to pull apart!
6. Mix with Barbecue Sauce:
In a large bowl, toss the shredded pork with your favorite barbecue sauce until it’s well coated. This will add that wonderful tangy flavor to your pulled pork!
7. Toast the Buns:
For extra deliciousness, lightly toast the sandwich buns until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now, it’s time to put your pulled pork sandwiches together! Start by piling generous portions of the pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Top it off with a scoop of the prepared coleslaw and then place the top bun on.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pulled pork sandwiches immediately and enjoy the delectable flavors. Don’t forget the napkins—you’ll want them!
Can I Use a Slow Cooker Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer using a slow cooker, just follow the same seasoning process, then place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker with a little bit of liquid (like broth or a splash of barbecue sauce) and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours until it’s tender.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing some spices, you can still make a great pulled pork. Try using a pre-made BBQ dry rub or simply season with salt, pepper, and any spices you do have, like cumin or paprika.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can cook the pork and prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the pork gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
How Long Can Leftovers Last?
You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the pork in a skillet or microwave, adding a little bit of barbecue sauce to keep it moist!
