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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Lakshman Rao Sarnala
These Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor. A no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for game nights, family dinners, and parties.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
2 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine American, Southern US
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 sandwich buns
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, jalapeños, extra BBQ sauce

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the pork – Pat the pork dry with paper towels and rub with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  • Sear the pork (optional but recommended) – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the pork for 3-4 minutes per side to enhance flavor.
  • Layer the slow cooker – Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Place the pork in the slow cooker – Add the pork on top of the onions.
  • Mix the sauce – In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, chicken broth (or apple cider vinegar), Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Pour over the pork.
  • Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.
  • Shred the pork – Remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Discard excess fat.
  • Mix with sauce – Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
  • Assemble the sandwiches – Toast sandwich buns, add a generous portion of pulled pork, and top with coleslaw, pickles, or extra BBQ sauce.
  • Serve & enjoy – Serve warm with your favorite side dishes!

Notes

  • Best cuts of pork: Pork shoulder or pork butt works best as they become ultra-tender when slow-cooked.
  • Make it spicy: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicier kick.
  • For extra smoky flavor: Use liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Keyword Easy BBQ Pulled Pork, Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork