Print

Tender Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches

slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy and easy slow cooker recipe that transforms pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches perfect for casual dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat but leaving some fat
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (240 ml), your favorite brand or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 sturdy burger buns or sandwich rolls
  • Optional toppings: pickles, coleslaw, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Trim the pork shoulder, removing large chunks of fat but leaving a good layer to keep the meat moist. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend all over the pork shoulder, pressing it in well.
  3. Slice the onion into rings or half-moons and mince the garlic cloves. Spread the onion evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker, then sprinkle the garlic on top.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic, fat side up if possible.
  5. In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar until smooth. Pour this over the pork, coating it evenly.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks or meat claws, discarding any large pieces of fat.
  8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it into the cooking juices and sauce. Let it sit on warm for 10-15 minutes to soak up the sauce.
  9. Toast the buns lightly if desired. Pile generous portions of pulled pork onto each bun and add optional toppings like pickles, coleslaw, or jalapeños.

Notes

Do not remove all fat from the pork shoulder to keep the meat juicy. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain temperature. If sauce is too thin after cooking, simmer it gently on the stove to thicken. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Meat claws speed up shredding and reduce mess.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, slow cooker, BBQ, sandwiches, pork shoulder, easy recipe, cozy meals, comfort food

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/tender-slow-cooker-pulled-pork-sandwiches-recipe-for-easy-cozy-meals/