3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out
These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.
Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic comfort food that brings together tender, flavorful meat with a satisfying crunch from pickles, all nestled in a soft bun. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this savory dish is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Get ready to dive into a deliciously messy and utterly satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pulled pork sandwich recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and texture. You’ll appreciate the following:
- Easy to make: A simple slow-cooked pork that practically cooks itself.
- Flavor explosion: Sweet, tangy barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with juicy pork.
- Customizable: Top with your favorite condiments and sides for a personalized touch.
- Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sandwiches!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup dill pickles, sliced
- Optional: coleslaw for topping
How to Make Pulled Pork Sandwich
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the pork shoulder.
- Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the meat, reserving the other half for later.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining barbecue sauce. Let it warm for an additional 30 minutes on low.
- While the pork is warming, toast the hamburger buns in a skillet or under the broiler until golden brown.
- To assemble the sandwiches, pile the pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun, add a generous amount of dill pickles, and top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your savory pulled pork sandwiches!
Tips for the Best Results
- For extra flavor, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side before placing it in the slow cooker.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
- Let the pulled pork sit in the sauce for a while before serving to absorb more flavor.
- Use a high-quality barbecue sauce for the best taste.
Easy Variations
- Swap out the pulled pork for shredded chicken or beef for different flavor profiles.
- Add toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- For a healthier twist, serve the pulled pork over a salad instead of in a bun.
What to Serve With It
- Classic coleslaw for added crunch and creaminess.
- Sweet potato fries for a satisfying side.
- Baked beans for a hearty addition to your meal.
- Corn on the cob for a summer BBQ feel.
Storage and Reheating
Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out
Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) or 4 hours (high)
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes (slow cooker) or 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
2 pounds pork shoulder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup barbecue sauce
4 hamburger buns
1 cup dill pickles, sliced
Optional: coleslaw
Instructions:
- Combine spices and rub on pork shoulder.
- Place pork in slow cooker, add half of the barbecue sauce.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred pork and mix with remaining barbecue sauce.
- Toast buns.
- Assemble sandwiches with pulled pork and pickles.
Notes: For extra flavor, sear the pork before cooking. Enjoy with coleslaw for added crunch!





















