Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

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Tender, juicy pulled pork infused with smoky BBQ flavors and a spicy kick, served on soft, toasted buns. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or an easy family dinner. Customizable and crowd-pleasing, these sandwiches deliver bold, mouthwatering flavors in every bite.

There’s something universally comforting about biting into a sandwich stuffed with tender, smoky pulled pork. Still, adding a hint of spice and tangy BBQ sauce transforms into an unforgettable flavor-packed experience. Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are the perfect marriage of heat, sweetness, and smokiness, making them a favorite for game days, casual gatherings, or satisfying weeknight dinners.

Picture this: a soft, pillowy bun cradling juicy, shredded pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, all smothered in a zesty BBQ sauce. It’s the kind of meal with your guests returning for seconds (and maybe thirds). Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think. Whether a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe will earn you a standing ovation.

Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

  1. Easy to Make: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
  2. Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.
  3. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves these sandwiches, whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard BBQ.
  4. Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Pork Shoulder: Opt for pork butt if shoulder isn’t available. Both cuts are ideal for slow cooking.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use a sweet BBQ sauce for balance or go spicy if you want to double down on the heat.
  • Hot Sauce: Any hot sauce works, but sriracha or cayenne-based sauces add an excellent kick.
  • Buns: Brioche buns add a touch of sweetness, but Kaiser rolls or even whole-grain buns work too.

Ingredients

  • For the pulled pork:
    • 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 large onion, sliced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup chicken broth
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
    • 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust for heat preference)
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
    • 1 tsp black pepper
    • 1 tsp salt
  • For the sandwiches:
    • 6 brioche or hamburger buns
    • Coleslaw (optional for topping)
    • Pickles (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sear the Pork

Searing the pork locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust. Don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Create the Base

Layer onions and garlic in the slow cooker. These will infuse the pork with extra flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauce It Up

Combining BBQ sauce, hot sauce, and spices creates a perfectly balanced sauce. Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Patience is key here! Cooking the pork low and slow ensures it becomes tender and juicy.

Step 5: Shred and Sauce

Shredding the pork while it’s hot helps it soak up all the sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Customize each sandwich with toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or even a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

Expert Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  2. Don’t Skip the Sear: It adds depth to the pork’s flavor.
  3. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the pork sit for a few minutes before shredding to retain moisture.

Variations and Customizations

  • Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve the pulled pork on lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
  • Vegetarian Swap: Use jackfruit instead of pork as a plant-based alternative.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with these sides:

  • Classic potato salad
  • Sweet corn on the cob
  • Crispy onion rings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Use the pressure cooker’s slow-cook function or cook on high pressure for 1.5 hours.

Q: Can I freeze the pulled pork?
A: Yes! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: What’s the best way to warm the sandwiches for a party?
A: Keep the pulled pork in a slow cooker in the “warm” setting, and assemble sandwiches as needed.

  • Honey BBQ Chicken Sliders
  • Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Sandwiches
  • Spicy Pulled Pork Tacos

Conclusion

Whether a casual dinner or a celebration, Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches deliver bold flavors and unbeatable comfort. With just a little prep and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. So grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and let’s get cooking—your new favorite sandwich awaits!

Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Juicy, tender pulled pork with a spicy kick, drenched in smoky BBQ sauce and served on toasted buns.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course sandwich
Cuisine American
Servings 6 sandwiches
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the pulled pork

  • 3 Lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

For the sandwiches

  • 6 brioche or hamburger buns
  • Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
  • Pickles (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the pork:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Set up the slow cooker:
    Place sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared pork shoulder on top.
  • Mix the sauce:
    In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the pork.
  • Cook the pork:
    Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easy to shred.
  • Shred the pork:
    Remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce.
  • Assemble the sandwiches:
    Toast the buns lightly. Pile the pulled pork onto each bun, top with coleslaw and pickles if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Whether it’s a casual dinner or a celebration, Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches deliver bold flavors and unbeatable comfort. With just a little prep and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. So grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and let’s get cooking—your new favorite sandwich awaits!
Keyword Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

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