Easy Barbecue Pork Sandwiches
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
I absolutely love using my slow cooker for meals during the fall and winter months. There’s something so comforting about coming home to a warm, hearty meal that’s been simmering all day. It’s even better when the recipe requires minimal effort, making dinner a breeze. I stumbled upon this recipe for easy barbecue pork sandwiches, adapting it slightly to suit my tastes.
Originally found in the January 2010 issue of Pillsbury’s Slow Cooker magazine, this recipe caught my eye with its unique combination of barbecue sauce and sweet and sour sauce. It also makes use of boneless country-style pork ribs, which are often on sale at the grocery store—an added bonus for anyone looking to save a little money.
The result is a flavorful and tender pulled pork that’s perfect for piling onto soft rolls. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a comforting meal, these barbecue pork sandwiches are sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients for Easy Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- BARBECUE SAUCE
- SWEET AND SOUR SAUCE
- GARLIC
- BONELESS COUNTRY-STYLE PORK RIBS
- KAISER ROLLS OR HAMBURGER BUNS
Instructions for Easy Barbecue Pork Sandwich Recipe
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the pork ribs in the slow cooker.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Cook the Pork: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Shred the Pork: Remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and place it on a plate. Using two forks, shred the pork by pulling it apart. Pour the juices from the slow cooker into a separate bowl and reserve.
Moisten the Pork: Place the shredded pork back into the slow cooker. Add enough of the reserved juices to moisten the meat. If you prefer saucier pork, you can also add additional barbecue sauce to taste.
Serve: Spoon the moist and flavorful pulled pork onto hamburger buns or rolls. Enjoy your delicious barbecue pork sandwiches!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Cook the pork on the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting for about 60-70 minutes, then use the natural release method. Follow the remaining steps as instructed.
How do I store leftover pulled pork?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pulled pork for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
To prevent the pork from drying out, make sure to add enough of the reserved cooking juices back into the shredded pork to keep it moist. You can also add extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep easier and more convenient.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The pork is done when it is tender and easily shredded with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
Can I use a slow cooker liner?
Yes, using a slow cooker liner can make cleanup easier. Simply place the liner in the slow cooker before adding the ingredients.
Can I make this bbq pork sandwich recipe spicy?
Yes, you can add heat to the recipe by incorporating spicy barbecue sauce, adding red pepper flakes, or including diced jalapeños in the sauce mixture.
For more recipes like this, try:
- Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork
- Smoky BBQ Pork Sandwiches
- Barbecue Pork
- Applesauce BBQ Sauce Shredded Pork
Easy Barbecue Pork Sandwiches
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped
- 2 lbs boneless country-style pork ribs cut into 2 inch pieces
- 8 kaiser rolls or hamburger buns
- extra barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Spray slow cooker with cooking spray. Put pork in slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, combine sauces and garlic. Mix well and pour over pork.
- Cover; cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
- Remove pork and place on plate. Shred pork by pulling apart with two forks. Pour juice from slow cooker into a bowl and reserve.
- Place pork back in slow cooker and add enough juice to moisten meat. Add additional barbecue sauce to make meat to desired sauciness.
- Spoon meat and rolls and enjoy.
