If you have been searching for a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dish to whip up for your next gathering or weeknight dinner, look no further than this Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe. Tender, juicy pork slow-cooked to perfection, infused with a smoky-sweet marinade, and piled high on soft buns creates a sandwich experience that’s unforgettable. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds, making it an absolute favorite for sharing and savoring with those you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a key role—from the burst of sweetness courtesy of brown sugar to the depth of flavor from Worcestershire sauce and the subtle heat of paprika. These simple essentials come together to build layers of flavor and create that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll crave.
- 1 large onion: Provides a natural sweetness and a moisture base when cooked beneath the pork.
- 6 lbs boneless Pork Shoulder Chuck Roast: The perfect cut for shredding; ample fat content keeps the meat juicy.
- 1 Tbsp salt: Enhances all the savory notes in the pork, seasoning it deeply.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky aroma and rich color to the pork’s crust.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the pork moist during slow cooking and blends beautifully with the other liquids.
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce: Infuses bold, tangy barbecue flavors that complement the meat.
- 1 Tbsp liquid smoke (optional): Delivers that authentic smoked flavor without needing a smoker.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a slight tang to the marinade.
- 3 large garlic cloves (pressed): Injects robust, aromatic flavor that enriches the whole dish.
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar: Balances savory elements with a touch of caramelized sweetness.
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Start by chopping your large onion and spreading it evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker. This layer not only adds incredible flavor as it cooks but also helps create a natural rack to keep the pork from sticking and drying out.
Step 2: Season the Pork Shoulder
In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Take your pork shoulder and give it a generous rub with this seasoning blend. This step is crucial for building that rich, savory crust as it cooks. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onion bed, letting those flavors start to mingle.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
Combine your chicken broth, BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and pressed garlic cloves in a bowl. Whisk until fully incorporated. Pour this fragrant, flavorful mixture over the pork in your slow cooker, ensuring the roast is evenly coated to soak up all those delicious liquids.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for 8 hours if you use two smaller roasts or around 8-10 hours for one large roast. Patience here is rewarded with pork that effortlessly pulls apart with just two forks. After cooking, transfer the pork to a large bowl, remove any excess fat, and shred it thoroughly. To finish, drizzle some of the reserved cooking juices over the meat, then brush with warm BBQ sauce to lock in that beautiful glaze.
How to Serve Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take your pulled pork sandwiches to the next level. Crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and contrast to the tender pork, while pickles bring a tangy bite that brightens each mouthful. Don’t forget to offer a few slices of red onion for a little sharpness and some fresh herbs if you want a pop of color and aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair your sandwiches with classic southern-style sides that complement the smoky richness of the pulled pork. Creamy potato salad, baked beans, or crispy fries make excellent choices. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or grilled vegetables will balance the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
While the classic sandwich on a soft bun is unbeatable, try serving the pulled pork over cornbread or inside baked potatoes for variety. You could also create sliders for easy finger food at parties or layer the pork with cheese and pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist. Offering different BBQ sauces on the side encourages everyone to customize their own plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pulled pork sandwiches can be a lifesaver for busy days. Store any unused shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep your buns separate to maintain freshness, and add the BBQ sauce just before serving.
Freezing
If you want to keep pulled pork longer, portion the shredded meat into freezer-friendly containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Frozen pulled pork holds up well for up to three months; just thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your pulled pork gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out this tender treasure.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content and tenderness after slow cooking, you can use pork butt or picnic roast as well. These cuts will still shred nicely but may vary slightly in flavor and fat levels.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this recipe in an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven. Cook the pork covered at a low temperature (around 275°F) for 6-8 hours, turning the meat occasionally and checking moisture levels—just like a slow cooker but with a bit more attention.
Is liquid smoke really necessary?
Liquid smoke is optional but highly recommended. It lends an authentic smoky flavor that enhances the BBQ profile without needing a smoker. If you’re out, you can leave it out or add a pinch of smoked paprika for some smokiness instead.
How do I keep the pulled pork moist while reheating?
Add a bit of the reserved cooking liquid or extra BBQ sauce while reheating. This helps maintain moisture and keeps the pork juicy and flavorful instead of drying out.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for heat. You can also offer spicy BBQ sauces or jalapeño slices as toppings to satisfy those who like a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe is truly a joy to make and share. The combination of simple ingredients transformed through slow cooking creates a sandwich that’s rich, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a laid-back family dinner or a lively get-together, this recipe promises smiles and satisfied appetites all around. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how delicious and easy pulled pork can be!
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings (about 8 pulled pork sandwiches)
- Category: Entree
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This slow cooker pulled pork recipe delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful meat perfect for sandwiches. With a blend of spices, a rich marinade including BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, and Worcestershire sauce, this dish is simple to prepare and slow-cooked to perfection, making it ideal for gatherings or a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 6 lbs boneless Pork Shoulder Chuck Roast (or 2 smaller roasts totaling 6–7 lbs)
Dry Seasonings
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
Marinade
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ Sauce
- 1 Tbsp liquid smoke (optional but recommended)
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 large garlic cloves, pressed
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Chop one large onion and place it in the bottom of a slow cooker, creating a flavorful base for the pork as it cooks.
- Season the pork: Combine salt, black pepper, and paprika. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the pork shoulder. Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure deep flavor penetration. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, stir together chicken broth, BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and pressed garlic cloves. Pour this flavorful marinade evenly over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Slow cook the pork: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 8 hours if using two smaller roasts, or 8-10 hours for a single large roast. The pork is done when it can be easily shredded with forks.
- Shred and serve: Remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker to a large bowl, discarding excess fat. Shred the meat using two forks. Pour the reserved drippings from the slow cooker over the shredded pork for added moisture and flavor. Brush with warm BBQ sauce before serving, perfect for pulled pork sandwiches.
Notes
- For best results, choose a pork shoulder chuck roast, which becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- Liquid smoke is optional but enhances the smoky flavor; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor profile.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, this recipe can be adapted for oven roasting at a low temperature for a longer time.
- Reserve cooking juices to keep the pulled pork moist and flavorful when mixing or serving.
