Best Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy

Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe – If you’re craving a sandwich that’s loaded with flavor and texture, the Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe is your go-to option. It’s a dish that brings together smoky, sweet, and savory notes in one irresistible bite. Originating from Southern barbecue traditions, pulled pork has evolved into a crowd-favorite dish across the U.S., often served at cookouts, family gatherings, and casual parties.

• Save

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe

• Cuisine: American

• Course: Main Course

• Servings: 6

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Cooking Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 6 hours (including slow cooking)

Equipment

• Slow cooker, Dutch oven, or oven-safe roasting pan

• Mixing bowls

• Meat thermometer

• Two forks (for shredding)

• Tongs

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons onion powder

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cooking Liquid:

• 1 cup chicken broth or water

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

• 6 burger buns or brioche rolls

• 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce, for coating

• Coleslaw, for topping (optional but recommended)

• Pickles, for garnish

Nutrition Information

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork

In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously over the pork shoulder, ensuring every side is coated well. This dry rub helps infuse the meat with deep, smoky flavor as it cooks.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides for about 2 minutes each, until a brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Cooker

Transfer the pork to your slow cooker or Dutch oven. Pour in chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. These liquids help tenderize the meat and build a rich, tangy base for the sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook:

• Slow cooker: On low for 6–8 hours, or high for 4–5 hours.

• Oven: At 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 hours.
  Cook until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once done, remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into thin strands. Discard large pieces of fat.

Step 6: Coat with Barbecue Sauce

Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix with the remaining barbecue sauce. Stir until every strand is coated. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the buns lightly for added texture. Pile a generous portion of pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw and pickles, and finish with the top bun. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips for the Best Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) has the ideal fat content for tender, juicy results.

• Low and slow cooking: Don’t rush the process — slow cooking breaks down the meat’s connective tissue, giving it that melt-in-the-mouth texture.

• Don’t skip resting: Let the pork rest before shredding to lock in juices.

• Make ahead: Pulled pork tastes even better the next day as flavors meld overnight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare and feeds a crowd

• Juicy, tender, and bursting with smoky flavor

• Perfect for meal prep or parties

• Customizable with different sauces and toppings

• Works with slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot

Final Thoughts

The Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe is the ultimate comfort meal that brings the taste of a Southern barbecue right into your kitchen. Each bite offers a perfect mix of tender meat, tangy sauce, and soft buns, creating a balance that’s both hearty and satisfying.