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Pulled pork sandwich recipe tender smoky 2025 09 30 151102 150x150

Pulled Pork Sandwich

This pulled pork sandwich recipe features juicy, smoky pork that is perfect for busy cooks, utilizing either the Instant Pot or slow cooker methods for delicious results.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pork Roast

  • 4 pounds Pork shoulder (Boston butt or picnic roast) Choose a fattier cut for shredding. Bone-in or boneless is fine.

BBQ Sauce

  • 1 cup Quality BBQ sauce Choose a vinegar-based or Kansas City-style sauce for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown sugar Optional, if making homemade BBQ sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Cider vinegar Optional, if making homemade BBQ sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked paprika Optional, if making homemade BBQ sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili powder Optional, if making homemade BBQ sauce.

Sandwich Components

  • 8 pieces Soft buns (brioche or potato rolls) Best for absorbing juices.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Choose a pork roast with good marbling for shredding.
  • If using an Instant Pot, cut the pork into large chunks for even cooking.
  • For a slow cooker, place the whole roast inside as long as it fits.
  • Season the pork roast with your choice of spices or rub.

Cooking

  • If using an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes.
  • If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
  • Later in the cooking process, add the BBQ sauce as per your preference.

Serving

  • Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix in more BBQ sauce to taste.
  • Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with additional toppings as desired.

Notes

Store any leftovers in airtight containers. Pulled pork is even better the next day! You can also freeze it in small portions for later meals.
Keyword BBQ, Instant Pot, pulled pork, sandwich, Slow Cooker