Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches are tender pork cooked slowly until it’s easy to shred. The meat gets nice and moist, perfect for filling buns with a flavorful, meatly goodness.
I find myself sneaking a second scoop of pork before I even build the sandwich. It’s so tasty, I can’t stop myself!
For a quick meal, I suggest keeping some pre-cooked pork on hand to save time on busy days.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork shoulder: I recommend bone-in pork shoulder for more flavor; if you want a leaner option, use pork tenderloin. Just keep in mind it’s softer and cooks faster. It’s best to trim excess fat but leave some for taste.
BBQ sauce: A good BBQ sauce adds sweetness and tang. Feel free to swap with honey mustard or a store-bought variety. I like adding a bit of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavor without overpowering.
Onions and garlic: These build the base flavor; use yellow onions and fresh garlic. If you’re short on time, garlic powder and onion powder work well but won’t be quite as vibrant. I love a little smoked paprika for extra depth.
Spices (like salt, pepper, paprika): These enhance the pork’s natural flavor. Adjust salt to taste; if you prefer a smoky kick, toss in some chipotle powder. For a milder flavor, use paprika or cumin instead.
How do I shred the pork without it drying out?
Let the cooked pork rest a few minutes before shredding—this helps retain moisture. Use two forks to pull the meat apart gently. If the pork seems dry, mix in some of the juices from the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
Sauces & Seasonings
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Buns & Toppings
- 4-6 hamburger buns
- Optional: coleslaw, pickles, sliced onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 8 hours on low. Resting & assembling: 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork
Rub the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Sauces
Combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the pork in the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Pork
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender and pulls apart easily.
4. Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into pieces.
5. Serve the Sandwiches
Pile the shredded pork onto buns. Add coleslaw or other toppings if you like. Serve warm.
