Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

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Looking for an easy crowd-pleaser? You can’t go wrong with slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. This Southern classic is perfect for dinner or parties. The tender, juicy pork cooks low and slow for 8 hours, getting infused with flavor from a simple spice rub and apple cider.

When it’s done, shred the meat and toss it in a homemade BBQ sauce. Pile the saucy pork high on soft buns with creamy coleslaw for the ultimate comfort food sandwich. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to feed a group. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sandwich. The ingredients are split into three main parts: the rub, the pork, and the BBQ sauce.

Rub

You’ll mix these spices to create a flavorful rub for the pork:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp paprika powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 3/4 tsp mustard powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Combine all these spices in a small bowl. This rub will give your pork a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Pork

For the main star of your sandwich, you’ll need:

• 1.5 – 2.2 kg (3 – 4.5 lb) pork shoulder or butt, skinless and boneless
• 3/4 cup apple cider or apple juice

Choose a good quality pork cut. The apple cider or juice adds moisture and a subtle fruity flavor to the meat as it cooks.

BBQ Sauce

Your homemade BBQ sauce will need these ingredients:

• 1 cup pork juices from the slow cooker
• 2 1/2 cups ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp each of black pepper, onion (or garlic) powder, mustard powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

This sauce brings together tangy, sweet, and savory elements. You can adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.

Instructions

Mix the rub ingredients and coat the pork. You can marinate it for an hour if you like.

Put the pork in your slow cooker and add apple cider. Cook on low for 8 hours.

Take the pork out and save the cooking liquid. If you want crispy edges, roast the pork for 20-30 minutes at 350°F.

Use two forks to shred the pork. It should fall apart easily.

Make the BBQ sauce while the pork roasts. Mix 1 cup of the saved cooking liquid with the sauce ingredients.

Add BBQ sauce to the shredded pork. Use as much as you like for your taste.

Serve on buns with coleslaw. Enjoy your tasty pulled pork sandwiches!

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can swap out some ingredients if you don’t have everything on hand. Here are some easy substitutions:

• Apple juice instead of apple cider
• Brown sugar instead of white sugar in the BBQ sauce
• Dijon mustard instead of mustard powder
• Onion powder instead of garlic powder (or vice versa)

Try these tasty variations to mix things up:

• Add a tablespoon of liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor
• Use beer instead of apple cider for a deeper taste
• Toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
• Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving

You can also experiment with different BBQ sauce styles:

• Carolina-style: Use a vinegar-based sauce
• Kansas City-style: Go for a thick, sweet tomato-based sauce
• Alabama-style: Try a creamy white BBQ sauce

Serve your pulled pork in different ways:

• On nachos
• In tacos
• Over baked potatoes
• Mixed into mac and cheese

These options let you customize the recipe to your tastes and what you have available.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

For the best pulled pork, choose a pork shoulder with some fat marbling. This helps keep the meat moist and tender during cooking.

You can prep the pork and rub the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

Don’t skip the resting time after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, making the meat even more flavorful.

If you like crispy bits, broil the shredded pork for a few minutes before adding sauce.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist. Warm it in the microwave or on the stove.

Try using the leftover pulled pork in tacos, quesadillas, or on top of baked potatoes for quick and tasty meals.

Remember to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. You might want to add a little extra BBQ sauce or spices.