This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches are tender, flavorful pork cooked slowly until it’s easy to shred. They’re perfect for quick meals with buns and all your favorite toppings.
I once made these for a family picnic, and everyone kept asking for seconds—even the picky eaters! It’s my go-to recipe for gatherings.
I use a simple barbecue sauce to keep things easy. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and you’re set with delicious sandwiches anytime!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut becomes tender and shreddable when slow-cooked. I prefer bone-in for extra flavor, but boneless works well too. If you can’t find pork shoulder, try pork butt as a substitute—both are tasty and affordable.
BBQ Sauce: The key to the smoky, tangy flavor. I recommend a good store-bought sauce, or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices—it’s easy and customizable to your taste. Honey or maple syrup can sweeten it if desired.
Onions: They add sweetness and depth. Slice them thin for quicker cooking or thick for a chunkier texture. If you forget onions, a splash of onion powder can help, or a dash of garlic for extra flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts aroma and flavor. Use minced garlic for easy distribution. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can stand in—use half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How do I shred the pork easily?
After cooking, let the pork rest for 10 minutes so juices settle. Use two forks to pull apart the meat—it should shred easily. If it’s stubborn, pop it in the mixer on low speed for a few seconds or slice instead of shredding.
- Allow the pork to rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Use two forks, pulling in opposite directions to shred evenly.
- If still tough, briefly use a mixer on low or chop with a knife.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Seasonings
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Optional: coleslaw for topping
Sauce and Extras
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep time. 8 hours slow cooking. 5 minutes for assembling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika over the pork. Rub seasonings into the meat evenly.
2. Place in Slow Cooker
Put the seasoned pork into the slow cooker. Pour in the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth.
3. Cook the Pork
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, until pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Meat
Remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into small pieces. Mix it with the juices in the slow cooker.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast buns if desired. Pile the pulled pork onto buns. Add coleslaw if you like. Serve warm.
