Nothing says comfort food quite like BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Juicy, tender, and packed with smoky flavor, this dish is a true American classic. Perfect for family dinners, summer cookouts, or even game day gatherings, these sandwiches never fail to impress. The best part? With a slow cooker, you can make them with minimal effort while still getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy & Hands-Off: The slow cooker does all the work. Smoky & Flavorful: BBQ sauce, spices, and apple cider vinegar give the pork a rich, tangy taste. Perfect for a Crowd: Serves a big family or can be doubled for parties. Customizable: Pile it high on soft buns, add coleslaw, or even serve it over baked potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
1 pork shoulder (4–5 lbs) Salt & pepper to taste
2–3 tbsp BBQ rub (your favorite brand or homemade)
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for mixing)
½ cup chicken broth Soft hamburger buns Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Season the Pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ rub. Let it sit for 30 minutes so the flavors soak in.
2. Sear for Flavor
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned (about 5–7 minutes per side). This step locks in flavor.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Transfer the pork to a slow cooker. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred it into juicy pieces. Discard excess fat.
5. Mix with BBQ Sauce
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in more BBQ sauce to taste. Let it warm through for a few minutes.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
Serve the pulled pork on soft hamburger buns. Top with crunchy coleslaw for the perfect bite.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crispy fries, chips, or baked beans. Serve with corn on the cob for a true BBQ feel. Leftovers can be used in tacos, quesadillas, or baked potatoes.
Tips for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Low & Slow: Don’t rush cooking; the slow cooker gives the best tender results. BBQ Sauce Matters: Use a high-quality smoky or tangy BBQ sauce for maximum flavor. Make Ahead: Pulled pork tastes even better the next day after the flavors develop.
Final Bite
These BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are smoky, savory, and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re making them for a family meal or a big party, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Easy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious – this recipe is a keeper!