Learn how to make pulled pork sandwiches with rich barbecue sauce. Each bite is filled with tender, juicy pork and bold, smoky flavors.
You will fall head over heels for this easy pulled pork sandwich recipe.
If this recipe hits the spot for you, try these BBQ chicken sliders, roast beef sandwiches, or BBQ mini chicken pizza.
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🛒 Ingredients
- Pork shoulder - Known for its marbling, pork shoulder becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked. This makes it perfect for shredding into pulled pork. You can substitute pork shoulder with pork butt, which is similar in texture and flavor. For a leaner option, try using pork loin or chicken thighs, though they may not be as tender. BBQ Beef is another option for tasty sandwiches.
- Onion - Good old white onion.
- Bell pepper - A large bell pepper gives a subtle sweetness and fresh texture. If you don't like it, you can skip it and use a bit more of sweet paprika instead.
- Garlic - Fresh garlic cloves deliver a pungent, earthy aroma that infuses into the pork during cooking. Please don't skip it!
- Oregano - This herb brings an aromatic, slightly peppery edge that complements the smoky spices. You can substitute it with dried thyme, tarragon, or marjoram.
- Paprika - Adds a smoky depth and mild heat, enhancing the barbecue profile of the pulled pork.
- Beef broth - Adds a rich, savory flavor and helps keep the pork moist while it slow cooks.
- Barbecue sauce - The essential in providing pork the best flavor!
- Mustard -You can use your favorite milder mustard here.
👩🍳 You'll find the complete list of ingredients below the recipe card.
🥘 How To Make BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Step By Step
- Sear the pork: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and brown it on both sides until it’s well-sealed.
- Prep the veggies: Slice the onion into thin strips (julienne) and the bell pepper into strips. Finely chop the garlic cloves.
- Add seasoning and sauce: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Mix in the oregano, paprika, salt, mustard, barbecue sauce, and beef broth.
- Coat the pork: Massage and coat the pork shoulder well with the seasoning and sauce mixture.
- Slow cook: Cover the pot and cook over low heat for one hour. Flip the pork shoulder and cook for another hour or until tender.
- Keep it moist: Check occasionally if more broth is needed to keep the meat moist, adding it as needed.
- Shred the pork: Once the pork is tender and shreds easily, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Combine everything: Return the shredded meat to the pot with all the veggies and juices. Adjust the barbecue sauce and salt to your liking.
What's the Best Pork for Pulled Pork?
- Pork shoulder: This is the top choice for delicious pulled pork. Also known as pork butt or Boston butt, it’s rich in fat and connective tissue, which makes it perfect for slow cooking.
The fat melts into the meat, keeping it juicy and flavorful!
- Pork picnic shoulder: Another great option, though it has a bit more bone and skin. It’s still well-marbled and works well for shredding after a long, slow cook.
- Pork loin: While leaner than shoulder cuts, pork loin can be used for pulled pork. However, it’s less forgiving and might be drier if overcooked, so be sure to monitor it closely and cook it slowly.
Best Buns for Pulled Pork
- Brioche buns: Rich, buttery, and slightly sweet, brioche buns add a touch of indulgence to your pulled pork sandwiches. Their soft, pillowy texture complements the tender meat perfectly.
- Potato buns: These buns are soft, slightly sweet, and have a fluffy texture that holds up well to the juicy pulled pork without getting soggy.
- Kaiser rolls: With a crusty exterior and a soft interior, Kaiser rolls offer a nice contrast to the tender pulled pork. They’re sturdy enough to handle hearty fillings.
- Hamburger buns: A classic choice, these buns are simple and versatile. Look for ones with a slightly firmer texture to hold up against the meat and sauce.
- Sandwich rolls: For a more rustic option, sandwiches provide a hearty, chewy texture that complements the rich pulled pork.
There are a ton of options when it comes to the best sandwich buns.
Rita's Tip
Choose the right cut: I recommend using pork shoulder for the most tender result. Its marbling delivers juicy meat after slow cooking.
📋 Tips
- Season generously: Don’t skimp on the spices and seasoning. A good rub or marinade adds depth and enhances the pork's overall flavor.
- Cook low and slow: For the best results, simmer your pork shoulder at a low temperature. This helps break down the connective tissues and fat, making the meat tender and easy to shred.
- Keep it moist: Check the meat periodically during cooking and add more broth or liquid if it looks dry. This helps keep the pork juicy and flavorful.
- Shred after cooking: Let the pork rest for a few minutes before shredding. This makes it easier to pull apart and allows the juices to redistribute.
👨🍳 Equipment I Recommend
- A large pot to cook the pork in
- Sharp knife and cutting board
💡 How do BBQ restaurants keep pulled pork juicy? BBQ restaurants often keep pulled pork moist by cooking it low and slow, sometimes in a smoker. They might also wrap the meat in foil or add a bit of liquid during cooking to keep it from drying out.
🍱Storage Instructions
- 🍱To Store. Allow the pulled pork to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Transfer the pulled pork to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- 🥶Freezing. For longer storage, place the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- 🔥To Reheat. Place the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
What Side Dishes Go Well With Pulled Pork?
Pulled pork is often served with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato salad.
These dishes complement the BBQ flavors perfectly! Here are more tasty sides:
More Easy Dinner Recipes
📖Recipe
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 large onion
- 1 large bell pepper
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¾ cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup mustard
- your favorite sandwich buns for serving
Instructions
- Sear the pork: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and brown it on both sides until it’s well-sealed.2 pounds pork shoulder, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Prep the veggies: Slice the onion into thin strips (julienne) and the bell pepper into strips. Finely chop the garlic cloves.1 large onion, 1 large bell pepper, 3 cloves garlic
- Add seasoning and sauce: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Mix in the oregano, paprika, salt, mustard, barbecue sauce, and beef broth.1 tablespoon oregano, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 cup beef broth, ½ cup mustard, ¾ cup barbecue sauce
- Coat the pork: Massage and coat the pork shoulder well with the seasoning and sauce mixture.
- Slow cook: Cover the pot and cook over low heat for one hour. Flip the pork shoulder and cook for another hour or until tender.
- Keep it moist: Check occasionally if more broth is needed to keep the meat moist, adding it as needed.
- Shred the pork: Once the pork is tender and shreds easily, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Combine everything: Return the shredded meat to the pot with all the veggies and juices. Adjust the barbecue sauce and salt to your liking.your favorite sandwich buns for serving
Notes
- To Store. Allow the pulled pork to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Transfer the pulled pork to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing. For longer storage, place the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- To Reheat. Place the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition
🤷 BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: FAQs
You can add coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños to your BBQ pulled pork sandwich. These toppings add crunch and extra flavor, making every bite delicious!
The best cut of pork for BBQ sandwiches is usually pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. It has a lot of fat, which makes it tender and flavorful when cooked.
Some people like to add mayo to their pulled pork sandwiches for creaminess, but it’s really up to your taste! Try it with and without to see what you prefer.
YES, many people love adding cheese to sandwiches and sliders! Cheddar or pepper jack (my personal fave!) are tasty choices that melt well and add a great flavor.
YES, it can! If pulled pork is cooked for too long, it can become dry and tough. It’s best to cook it until it's tender but still juicy.
Besides BBQ sauce, using a mixture of apple juice, broth, or other tangy sauce can help keep pulled pork moist. Adding a little of these liquids while cooking or serving can really boost the flavor and moisture.
The secret to great pulled pork is cooking it slowly at a low temperature and seasoning it well. Patience is key! Let it rest after cooking to keep all the tasty juices inside.
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