Pulled pork sandwiches are made with slow-cooked pork that is tender and easy to pull apart. They are topped with barbecue sauce and served on soft buns, making a tasty and filling meal.
I like to make these on weekends. I usually end up with sauce on my face and a big smile at the end!
If you want less fat, use lean pork and keep some napkins nearby for quick cleanup.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cuts slowly melts, becoming tender and juicy. I like using bone-in for more flavor, but boneless works too—just adjust the cook time. Bone-in adds richness and is great for shredding.
BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce enhances the pork and keeps it moist. I prefer homemade or store-bought, but you could swap with honey mustard or a fruity jam for a different twist. Just keep the balance of sweet and tangy.
Onions & Garlic: These add depth and aroma. I use yellow onions and garlic cloves for flavor, but shallots or onion powder work well if fresh isn’t available. Sautéing before adding helps build layers of flavor.
Spices (Paprika, Cumin, Pepper): They give smoky, warm notes that make the dish memorable. Feel free to reduce or increase these according to taste. For a milder version, cut back on cumin or skip the pepper.
How do I shred the pork without it drying out?
Use two forks to shred the cooked pork. It’s best done when meat is hot but not burning. To keep it moist, shred in batches and mix with the cooking juices or sauce right after shredding. This prevents it from turning dry and keeps it flavorful.
- Wait until pork is tender and easy to shred, usually after slow cooking or roasting.
- Place pork on a cutting board or large plate.
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the shredded pork with a bit of the cooking juices or BBQ sauce for extra moisture.
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (butt)
Rub
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Cooking
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Buns for serving
- Optional: coleslaw
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 15 mins | Cooking: 8 hours | Resting: 15 mins | Total: about 8 hours and 30 mins
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork
Mix paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder evenly.
2. Cook the Pork
Place the pork in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily shred with a fork.
3. Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into small pieces. Discard any excess fat or bones.
4. Mix with Sauce
Stir the shredded pork with BBQ sauce. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
5. Assemble Sandwiches
Serve the pulled pork on buns. Top with coleslaw if desired. Enjoy your sandwiches!
