BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Nothing screams summer like a plate of tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. This classic dish, featuring slow-cooked pork shoulder shredded and smothered in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, is perfect for backyard gatherings, family dinners, or game-day feasts. 

Paired with soft hamburger buns, creamy coleslaw, and a tangy pickle topping, every bite delivers comfort and flavor. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe easy and hands-off, letting the pork cook low and slow to perfection. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step to create mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sandwiches at home. Plus, we’ll share tips for customizing the recipe, storing leftovers, and even supporting your health goals with supplements like Keto Actives to help manage appetite while enjoying hearty meals.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:

• Easy to Make: The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to prep sides or relax.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky BBQ sauce with tender pork is irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual dinners, picnics, or large gatherings.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap toppings, or pair with your favorite sides.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients for BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Here’s what you’ll need to make 8–10 servings of BBQ pulled pork sandwiches:

• 4–5 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 8–10 hamburger buns
• 2 cups coleslaw
• Pickles for topping (optional)

For the coleslaw (if making from scratch):

• 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

• Slow cooker – For cooking the pork low and slow.
• Mixing bowl – For preparing the coleslaw.
• Tongs – For shredding and handling the pork.
• Measuring cups – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Measuring spoons – For spices and small quantities.
• Knife – For chopping vegetables for coleslaw.
• Cutting board – For prep work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork, covering all sides.
4. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Cooking Liquid

1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
2. Pour the mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.

Step 3: Shred the Pork

1. Remove the pork from the slow cooker using tongs and place it on a cutting board.
2. Shred the pork using two forks or tongs.
3. Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker, then return the shredded pork to the liquid.
4. Stir in extra BBQ sauce if desired for more flavor.

Step 4: Make the Coleslaw (Optional)

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Toast the hamburger buns lightly if desired.
2. Pile a generous portion of shredded pork onto the bottom half of each bun.
3. Top with coleslaw and pickles if using.
4. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for its fat content, which keeps the meat juicy.
• Don’t Skip the Rub: The spice rub adds depth to the flavor.
• Adjust the Sauce: Add more BBQ sauce for a saucier sandwich or less for a drier texture.
• Make Ahead: Cook the pork a day in advance and reheat for even better flavor.
• Try Different Toppings: Swap coleslaw for pickled onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one BBQ pulled pork sandwich (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 900mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a lighter option, use low-sugar BBQ sauce or reduce the amount of brown sugar.

To support your weight management goals while enjoying hearty meals like this, consider supplements like Moringa Actives, which helps reduce hunger and supports metabolism, or Fat Burn Active, designed to aid fat reduction.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the pork in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the pork in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Pairing Suggestions

These BBQ pulled pork sandwiches pair perfectly with:

• Baked Beans: A sweet and savory side.
• Corn on the Cob: A summer classic.
• Potato Salad: Creamy and refreshing.
• Iced Tea: A cool drink to balance the richness.

For a health-conscious twist, pair with a detoxifying drink made with Matcha Extreme, which supports weight control and removes excess water from the body.

Support Your Health Goals

While indulging in delicious meals like BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, you can still stay on track with your wellness goals. Here are some supplements to consider:

• Crave Burner: Helps control appetite and supports fat metabolism, perfect for balancing hearty meals.
• NuviaLab Sugar Control: Supports stable blood sugar levels, ideal for managing carb-heavy dishes.
• Fibre Select: A vital fiber supplement to cleanse the body and enhance digestion.

Explore these and more at the links provided to find the right fit for your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?

Yes! You can cook the pork shoulder in an oven at 275°F for 6–8 hours, covered tightly with foil in a baking dish.

How Can I Make the Pork Spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper to the rub or mix in hot sauce with the BBQ sauce.

Can I Use Store-Bought Coleslaw?

Absolutely! Use pre-made coleslaw to save time.

Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, skip the hamburger buns and serve the pork with low-carb toppings. Try NuviaLab Keto to support weight loss on a ketogenic diet.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ pulled pork sandwiches recipe is the ultimate summer dish, combining tender pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy coleslaw for a meal that’s sure to impress. With a slow cooker, it’s easy to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy with friends and family. 

Plus, with health supplements like Keto Actives or Moringa Actives, you can savor this hearty dish while staying on track with your wellness goals.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out! Share your creations in the comments or tag us on social media.