Olivia Carter
Looking for a delicious and easy pulled pork sandwich recipe? Look no further! This slow cooker pulled pork sandwich recipe is the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing with every bite. The combination of tender slow-cooked pork, smoky barbecue sauce, and soft buns creates a sandwich that is simply irresistible.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it. This means that you can go about your day and come home to the mouthwatering aroma of pulled pork waiting for you. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender and juicy, making it perfect for shredding.
To make this pulled pork sandwich recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with a boneless pork shoulder, also known as pork butt or Boston butt, as it has the ideal amount of fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the long cooking process. Rub the pork with a flavorful blend of spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and black pepper, to give it a delicious crust.
Next, place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and pour in a generous amount of your favorite barbecue sauce. The slow cooker will work its magic, infusing the pork with the sweet and tangy flavors of the sauce. After several hours of slow cooking on low heat, the pork will be so tender that it easily falls apart with just a fork.
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking juices and additional barbecue sauce to add even more flavor. Then, assemble the pulled pork sandwiches by placing a generous amount of the tender meat onto each bun and topping it with your favorite coleslaw or pickles for a refreshing crunch.
These slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, from game day parties to family gatherings. With their mouthwatering flavors and easy preparation, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the best pulled pork sandwich you’ve ever tasted!
Prepare and Season the Pork
Before you start cooking the pulled pork in your slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare and season the meat to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. The first step is to choose a good quality pork shoulder or pork butt, which is the ideal cut of meat for making pulled pork sandwiches.
Once you have your pork, you’ll need to trim off any excess fat from the outside, leaving just a thin layer for flavor. Next, you can season the meat with a dry rub or a marinade of your choice. A classic dry rub combination includes a mixture of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices like chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
To season the pork, start by rubbing the dry rub mixture all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly. If you prefer a marinade, you can place the pork in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure every part of the meat is covered. Then, refrigerate the seasoned pork for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Choose a good quality pork shoulder or pork butt
- Trim off excess fat from the outside
- Season with a dry rub or marinade
- Classic dry rub includes brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
- Additional herbs and spices can be added for extra flavor
- Rub dry rub mixture evenly over the meat
- Place pork in a resealable plastic bag for marinade option
- Refrigerate seasoned pork for at least 4 hours or overnight
Slow Cook the Pork
One of the crucial steps in making the best pulled pork sandwich is to slow cook the pork. This method ensures that the meat becomes tender and flavorful. To begin, choose a good cut of pork, such as pork shoulder or pork butt, as these cuts have enough fat to keep the meat moist during the slow cooking process.
To slow cook the pork, first season it with a rub made from spices such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This will add depth of flavor to the meat. Next, place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and add some liquid, such as chicken broth or apple juice, to keep the pork moist as it cooks. You can also add some sliced onions or garlic cloves for additional flavor.
Set the slow cooker on low heat and let the pork cook for several hours, typically around 8 to 10 hours. Slow cooking allows the pork to break down slowly and become tender, making it easy to shred later on. The low heat also helps the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and savory pulled pork.
Once the pork is done slow cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, pulling it apart into small, bite-sized pieces. At this point, you can also remove any excess fat or gristle from the pork.
Now that the pork is shredded, you can incorporate it into your pulled pork sandwiches. You can mix the shredded pork with your favorite barbecue sauce, or simply season it with some salt and pepper. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork is flavorful and tender, making for a delicious and satisfying sandwich filling.
Make the BBQ Sauce
Creating a delicious BBQ sauce is an essential step in making the best pulled pork sandwich in a slow cooker. The sauce is what gives the pork its flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. By making your own BBQ sauce, you can customize the flavors to your liking and ensure that it complements the pork perfectly.
To make the BBQ sauce, start by combining ingredients such as ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. These ingredients will create a rich and tangy sauce that pairs well with the smoky flavor of the pork.
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a bit more brown sugar or honey. For those who like a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce. The beauty of making your own BBQ sauce is that you can adjust the flavors to your liking, creating a sauce that is truly unique and delicious.
Once you have combined all the ingredients, it is important to let the sauce simmer on the stove for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will also help to thicken the sauce slightly, ensuring that it coats the pulled pork nicely when it is added to the slow cooker.
After the sauce has simmered and thickened, you can then pour it over the pork in the slow cooker, making sure to coat the meat evenly. The sauce will infuse the pork with flavor as it cooks low and slow, resulting in tender and delicious pulled pork that is perfect for sandwiches.
By taking the time to make your own BBQ sauce, you can elevate the flavor of your pulled pork sandwich and truly make it the best it can be. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a sauce that is tailored to your taste and ensures a mouthwatering sandwich every time.
- Combining ingredients to create a flavorful BBQ sauce
- Adjusting the flavors to create a sauce that suits your taste preferences
- Simmering the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly
- Coating the pork evenly with the sauce in the slow cooker for maximum flavor
- Enjoying a pulled pork sandwich with a homemade BBQ sauce that is truly the best.
Shred and Serve the Pulled Pork
Now that your slow cooker has worked its magic and your pork has become tender and juicy, it’s time to shred it and serve it up! Shredding the pork is an important step in creating the perfect pulled pork sandwich.
Grab a pair of tongs or two forks to easily shred the pork. Start by removing any large pieces of fat or bone from the meat. Then, begin pulling the meat apart using the tongs or forks. The slow cooking process should have made the meat incredibly tender, so it should easily come apart into soft, succulent shreds.
Once you have shredded all of the pork, it’s time to serve it up on your favorite sandwich bun. Don’t be shy with the amount of pork you pile on – the more, the better! If you prefer a saucier sandwich, drizzle some of the cooking juices from the slow cooker over the shredded pork. This will add extra flavor and moisture to your sandwich.
To take your pulled pork sandwich to the next level, consider adding some coleslaw or pickles for a crunchy and tangy contrast to the tender meat. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try topping your sandwich with some melted cheese or a dollop of barbecue sauce. The possibilities are endless and entirely up to your personal taste preferences.
There you have it – a delicious and satisfying pulled pork sandwich made with the help of your trusty slow cooker. The combination of slow cooking and shredding the pork ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and tenderness. So grab a napkin, dig in, and savor the mouthwatering goodness of your homemade pulled pork sandwich!
Assemble the Pulled Pork Sandwich
Once your slow-cooked pulled pork is tender and full of flavor, it’s time to assemble a delicious sandwich that will satisfy any meat lover. Follow these steps to create the perfect pulled pork sandwich:
1. Select a sturdy bun: Choose a fresh, sturdy bun that can hold up to the juicy and flavorful pulled pork. A brioche bun or a pretzel bun would be an excellent choice.
2. Toast the bun: For added texture and flavor, lightly toast the insides of the bun. This will help prevent the bun from becoming soggy when it comes into contact with the pulled pork.
3. Spread a layer of sauce: Start by spreading a layer of your favorite barbecue sauce on the bottom half of the bun. This will add a tangy and savory flavor to the sandwich.
4. Pile on the pulled pork: Use a fork or tongs to carefully pile a generous amount of the slow-cooked pulled pork on top of the sauce. Make sure to distribute it evenly to ensure every bite is filled with delicious tender meat.
5. Add toppings and extras: To enhance the flavors and add some extra texture, consider adding toppings such as sliced pickles, coleslaw, or crispy onions. These ingredients will provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the rich and tender pulled pork.
6. Top it off: Finish off your pulled pork sandwich by placing the top half of the bun on top of the piled-up ingredients. Gently press down to hold everything together and ensure that each bite is a mouthful of deliciousness.
With these steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
There are endless possibilities for variations and serving suggestions for your slow cooker pulled pork sandwich. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add some heat to your sandwich by incorporating chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce into the seasoning rub for the pork.
- Asian-inspired Pulled Pork: Infuse your pork with Asian flavors by adding soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil into the slow cooker. Serve the pulled pork on a toasted bun topped with pickled vegetables and a drizzle of hoisin sauce.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: For a classic BBQ flavor, mix the pulled pork with your favorite barbecue sauce before serving. You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauces, such as spicy, smoky, or sweet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Pulled Pork Sandwich: Serve the pulled pork on a soft burger bun or a crusty roll. Top it with coleslaw, pickles, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a traditional and satisfying sandwich.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: For a fun party appetizer or a lighter meal, serve the pulled pork on mini slider buns. Add some sliced cheese, sliced onions, and a dollop of coleslaw for a flavorful bite-sized treat.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: Use the pulled pork as a filling for tacos. Warm up some corn tortillas and top them with the pulled pork, diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Overall, the slow cooker pulled pork sandwich is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or sweet, there are endless variations and serving ideas to try. Get creative and enjoy this delicious and comforting meal!
10 Best Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe Slow Cooker
Smithfield Smoked Pulled Pork without Sauce, 5 Pound -- 2 per case.
Features
| Size | 5 pound |
- Food items cannot be returned.
Eddy Pulled Pork, 10 Pound -- 1 each.
Features
| Part Number | 4619 |
| Size | 160 Ounces |
- Ships frozen, CANNOT be cancelled after being processed.
Head Country Bar-B-Q Sauce, Original - Soy Free, Gluten Free Barbecue Sauce With No Added Preservatives - Sweet & Savory Championship BBQ Sauce For Chicken,...
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2017-04-25T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 160 Ounce (Pack of 4) |
- THE ORIGINAL BBQ SAUCE: Our rich blend of flavors capture the spirit of what BBQ really stands for - friends, family, and coming together. Since 1947, this barbecue sauce remains an Oklahoma favorite.
- PREMIUM, TRUSTED INGREDIENTS: Gluten free, soy free, and with no added preservatives or allergens, we’ve crafted a diet restriction-friendly barbecue sauce without compromising flavor.
- SO MUCH MORE THAN FLAVOR: This tried and true classic BBQ sauce celebrates the well-balanced blend of sweet and savory with subtle spice. It’s also known for superior glaze and color.
- A COMPETITION FAVORITE: Head Country’s Original is the competition-quality BBQ sauce flavor that championship pitmasters and judges are looking for. Also great for restaurant use.
- PAIRS WELL WITH: The BBQ and grilling classics: pulled pork, ribs, chicken, burgers and more.
Burgers' Smokehouse Signature Sauced Pull Pork (Four 1 pound trays)
Features
| Size | Four 1 Pound trays |
- Sauced Pulled Pork is made from fresh pork shoulder that's cured with the best ingredients
- Aged for flavor and slow smoked over real hickory wood chips to perfection before being hand-pulled and mixed with our K.C. Style BBQ Sauce
- One pound trays are microwavable and ready to be enjoyed in less than 5 minutes
- Enjoy the taste of a homecooked meal in a matter of minutes
Signature Sauced Pulled Pork Party Pack (Signature Sauced, 5 pounds)
Features
| Warranty | no warranty |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 5 pounds |
- Bulk packages are slower cooker ready
- Great for serving big crowds
- Each party pack easily serves up to 18 hungry guests
- Prepare an impressive meal with no fuss ? heating instructions are included
FAQ
What are variations of serving suggestions for a classic pasta dish?
Variations of serving suggestions for a classic pasta dish include adding different types of sauces such as marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or pesto sauce. You can also add vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or grilled zucchini, for added flavour and texture. Another variation is to top the pasta with grated cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
How can I serve a salad with a twist?
You can serve a salad with a twist by adding unique ingredients or dressings. Consider adding fruits like sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges for a touch of sweetness. You can also spice up your salad by adding roasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a crunchy texture. For a twist in dressing, try using a balsamic glaze or a creamy avocado dressing instead of the usual vinaigrette.
Conclusion
In conclusion, variations and serving suggestions can be a great way to add excitement and creativity to any dish. Whether it’s trying out different ingredients or experimenting with unique presentations, these variations can take a recipe to the next level. From adding a twist to a classic recipe to exploring new flavors and textures, the possibilities are endless. So don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and try out different variations and serving suggestions to make your meals even more delicious and enjoyable. Happy cooking!
