How to Make BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches at Home – Easy & Delicious Recipe

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BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Classic American Favorite

Homemade Vegan Pulled Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich with Coleslaw and Chips

Introduction

Juicy, tender, and dripping with smoky barbecue sauce — BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a timeless American comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re preparing them for a weekend cookout, a game day feast, or an easy family dinner, these sandwiches deliver a delicious, slow-cooked flavor that satisfies every bite.

With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker (or oven), you can create mouthwatering pulled pork that’s perfect for piling onto buns with crunchy coleslaw for that classic Southern finish.

Ingredients

Pulled pork sandwich on a soft brioche bun with bbq sauce and pickles

For the Pulled Pork:

  • 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

For the Sandwiches:

  • 6–8 burger buns or sandwich rolls
  • Extra BBQ sauce, for drizzling
  • Coleslaw (optional but recommended)
  • Pickles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork

  • Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
  • Rub the seasoning mix all over the pork to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pork

Slow Cooker Method:

  • Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Place the pork on top and pour in the chicken broth.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until pork is fall-apart tender.

Oven Method:

  • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Place pork in a roasting pan with onions and broth.
  • Cover tightly with foil and roast for 3–4 hours until tender.
Pulled pork burgers with pickled and fresh vegetables and coriander on white tiled background

Step 3: Shred the Pork

  • Remove pork from the cooker/pan and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  • Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  • Discard excess fat and bones if present.

Step 4: Mix with BBQ Sauce

  • Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker or a large bowl.
  • Add BBQ sauce and toss to coat thoroughly.
  • Let it simmer for 10–15 more minutes (if using slow cooker) or gently reheat on the stove.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

  • Toast the buns lightly for added texture.
  • Pile on a generous portion of pulled pork.
  • Add coleslaw and pickles if using.
  • Drizzle with more BBQ sauce and top with the other half of the bun.
Pulled pork sweet bun with mixed lettuce leaves on blue background

Tips

  • Make Ahead: Pulled pork can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 2 months.
  • Add Smokiness: For extra flavor, add a drop of liquid smoke or grill the pork after shredding.
  • Homemade Sauce: Try a mix of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, mustard, and spices for a quick homemade BBQ sauce.
  • Serving Ideas: Great with baked beans, corn on the cob, or a side salad.
Close up of pulled pork barbeque sandwich with coleslaw sitting on wooden table with glass of beer

Conclusion

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are the ultimate crowd-pleaser — easy to make, full of flavor, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a backyard BBQ, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Pair with some crunchy slaw and a soft bun, and you’re all set for a satisfying and unforgettable meal.

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