Description
A Southern classic made easy. Paula Deen’s Pulled Pork Sandwiches are loaded with tender, slow-roasted pork, coated in a smoky spice rub and barbecue sauce, and served on soft buns. Perfect for gatherings, game day, or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt): 4–5 pounds — Well-marbled and perfect for shredding.
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons — Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully.
- Paprika: 1 tablespoon — Brings a warm, smoky note.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon — Enhances savory depth.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon — Adds a mellow background flavor.
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons — Balances and intensifies all other flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon — Brings a subtle heat and bite.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon — Optional, for a spicy kick.
- Liquid Smoke: 1 tablespoon — Infuses that authentic smoky barbecue aroma.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons — Brightens the richness and tenderizes the meat.
- Barbecue Sauce: 1 cup (plus more for serving) — Coats the pork and brings it all together.
- Sandwich Buns: 6–8 — Soft, pillowy, and ready to catch every delicious drip.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Prepare a roasting pan lined with foil for easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Rub the spice mix all over the pork shoulder. Place the pork into the roasting pan and drizzle with liquid smoke and apple cider vinegar.
- Assemble the Dish: Cover the pan tightly with foil or a lid. Place in the oven.
- Cook to Perfection: Roast for 5–6 hours, or until the pork reaches 195–205°F and shreds easily with a fork.
- Finishing Touches: Let the pork rest for 15–20 minutes. Shred using two forks, discarding excess fat. Mix in 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pile high onto buns, drizzle with more sauce if desired, and serve warm with coleslaw or pickles.
Notes
- Note: Marinating the pork overnight enhances flavor.
- Note: For extra crispy edges, broil shredded pork for 5 minutes before serving.
- Note: Adjust spice level by reducing or omitting cayenne.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg