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Pulled pork sandwiches are a cherished staple in American cuisine, known for their mouthwatering taste and satisfying texture. This dish has gained immense popularity across the nation, particularly in the Southern states, where barbecue culture thrives. The Smoky Sweet Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches take this beloved dish to new heights, combining rich flavors with the convenience of slow cooking.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Smoky Sweet Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches. This mouthwatering dish transforms pork shoulder into tender, flavorful pulled pork using a slow cooker, allowing for hands-off preparation. With a delicious blend of spices and a tangy-sweet BBQ sauce, these sandwiches are perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or easy weeknight meals. Juicy, packed with flavor, and sure to impress, this recipe is a must-try!
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Ingredients
  

4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon cumin

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

8 hamburger buns

Coleslaw (for topping, optional)

Pickles (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.

    Create the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Rub this spice mix generously all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.

      Brown the Pork (optional): For added flavor, you can sear the seasoned pork shoulder in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown all sides (about 4-5 minutes per side) then transfer to the slow cooker. If you choose to skip this step, that’s perfectly fine too!

        Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.

          Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.

            Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it well with the remaining sauce.

              Prepare the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns until slightly crispy (optional). Serve the pulled pork on the buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

                Enjoy! Serve the sandwiches with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your delicious homemade BBQ pulled pork sandwiches!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 8-10 hours | 8 servings