These pulled pork sandwiches are super easy and packed with flavor! The tender, slow-cooked pork is mixed with a tangy sauce and piled high on soft buns. Yum!
Honestly, nothing beats the joy of pulling apart that pork and topping it with your favorite coleslaw. It’s a messy treat that everyone loves, and you might even steal a few bites before serving! 😄
I like to make extra to have leftovers for the next day; they taste even better! Just keep some of that sauce handy; it makes every bite delicious. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content that makes it tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, try using pork butt or even chicken thighs for a lighter option.
Spices: The blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin adds depth. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste. For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works in a pinch.
Barbecue Sauce: Using your favorite brand or homemade sauce is key! You can try a sweet, tangy, or vinegar-based sauce depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sugar-free barbecue sauces are widely available.
Coleslaw: This is optional but highly recommended! If you’re avoiding mayonnaise, try making a vinegar-based coleslaw instead, just mix shredded veggies with vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
How Do I Get the Pork Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the pork correctly helps to get the right texture for your sandwiches. After cooking, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes to keep it juicy. Then, using two forks, gently pull the meat apart into strands, discarding any big chunks of fat.
- If the pork is hard to shred, give it more cooking time—it should feel tender and fall apart easily.
- Mix in barbecue sauce while shredding to evenly coat the meat, allowing every bite to be flavorful.
Why Should I Make My Own Coleslaw?
Making coleslaw at home is easier than you think and can be customized to your liking! You control the ingredients, and it’s a great way to add freshness to your sandwiches. Just toss shredded cabbage and carrots with a mix of mayo (or yogurt), vinegar, and a bit of sugar.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with add-ins like apples or nuts for a crunchy twist!
Enjoy making your pulled pork sandwiches and feel free to make it your own!
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 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 sandwich buns or brioche buns
- 2 cups coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, for coleslaw)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for coleslaw)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional for coleslaw)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time plus cooking time. If using a slow cooker, it’s best to allow 8-10 hours on low, or 4-5 hours on high. Using the oven method, you’ll need 4-5 hours altogether. After cooking, remember to let the pork rest for about 15 minutes before shredding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
In a small bowl, combine the spices: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like heat. Rub this flavorful spice mix all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s covered evenly.
2. Cook the Pork:
For the slow cooker method, place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the meat is tender and easy to shred. If you prefer the oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C), place the pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, cover tightly, and roast for 4 to 5 hours. Both methods will give you wonderfully tender pork!
3. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is done cooking, carefully transfer it to a large dish. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any huge chunks of fat. Pour in about half a cup of barbecue sauce and mix everything together. You can add more sauce depending on your taste!
4. Prepare Coleslaw (Optional):
To make coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a bowl. If desired, add mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar, mixing well. Let the coleslaw chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it with your sandwiches.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
If you like, lightly toast the sandwich buns. Stack a generous portion of pulled pork onto the bottom bun, drizzle with extra barbecue sauce if desired, and add a scoop of coleslaw on top. Place the top bun over the coleslaw and you’re ready to dig in!
6. Serving Suggestion:
These pulled pork sandwiches are best enjoyed with side dishes like pickles, chips, or your favorite salad. Any leftover pulled pork can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for future delicious meals!
Enjoy your delicious, tender, and saucy pulled pork sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for Pulled Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content, you can also use pork butt or even chicken thighs for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may differ.
How Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will enhance the flavors and make your prep easier when it’s time to serve!
What Should I Do with Leftover Pulled Pork?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to cool the pork completely before sealing it for freezing to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I Add Other Toppings Besides Coleslaw?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Consider adding sliced pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado for an extra kick. You can also try different sauces to customize your flavor!
