If you're craving a mouthwatering meal that combines tender, juicy pork with the smoky goodness of barbecue, look no further! These Speedy Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a game-changer for your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. With just a little prep time and the magic of a slow cooker, you can create a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine sinking your teeth into a sandwich overflowing with flavorful pulled pork, perfectly paired with your favorite toppings. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat if necessary and pat the meat dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere better.
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to rub the seasonings all over the meat for even flavor distribution.
- In a large slow cooker, place the sliced onion at the bottom. This will serve as a flavorful base for the pork as it cooks.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the sliced onions in the slow cooker.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is well-coated. You can reserve a small amount of sauce for serving later if desired.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the pork to cook for approximately 8 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. If desired, you can mix in some of the cooking juices from the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly if you prefer a crunchy texture.
- To assemble the sandwiches, place a generous portion of the pulled pork onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun. If you reserved any barbecue sauce, drizzle it over the pork for extra flavor.
- Top each sandwich with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your Speedy Pulled Pork Sandwiches!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness. The fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A good rub will enhance the flavor of the pork and make every bite delicious.
- Layering Matters: Placing the onions at the bottom of the slow cooker not only adds flavor but also prevents the pork from sticking to the bottom.
- Low and Slow: For the best results, cook the pork on low heat for the full 8 hours. This allows the meat to break down and become tender.
- Rest Before Shredding: Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture and makes shredding easier.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to mix in additional spices or sauces to the barbecue sauce for a unique twist. Experimenting can lead to your new favorite flavor!
- Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting the hamburger buns adds a delightful crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
- Serve with Style: Consider adding coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor and texture to your sandwiches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
