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When it comes to BBQ pulled pork, there's no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or just looking for a comforting meal, these six recipes offer something for everyone. From classic Southern sandwiches to a smoky mac and cheese, each dish brings its own unique twist. Curious about which one will become your new favorite? Let's explore these tempting creations together.
Key Takeaways
- Classic Southern Pulled Pork Sandwiches feature a flavorful dry rub and are served with coleslaw for a traditional BBQ experience.
- Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos offer a zesty twist, with chipotle peppers and fresh toppings like cilantro and lime.
- Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders combine sweet pineapple and BBQ sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or parties.
- Classic Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork Bowls provide a unique flavor profile with soy sauce and ginger, served over rice with fresh veggies.
- Smokehouse Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese blends creamy, cheesy goodness with tender pulled pork for a comforting and hearty dish.
Classic Southern Pulled Pork Sandwiches
To make the ultimate pulled pork sandwiches, you'll want to start with a good quality pork shoulder, which is ideal for slow cooking. The meat becomes incredibly tender as it cooks low and slow, absorbing all the spices and sauces you add.
Once your pork is ready, simply pile it high on a bun, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by mixing paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl to create a dry rub.
Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well-coated. For best results, let the pork marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Next, place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker or a large Dutch oven. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the pork, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the cooker and shred it using two forks. In a large bowl, mix the shredded pork with barbecue sauce until well combined.
Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider smoking the pork shoulder instead of slow cooking it, if you have access to a smoker.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces or add your favorite toppings such as pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Leftover pulled pork can be refrigerated and used in various dishes, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch!
Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos
Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos are a delicious and flavorful twist on the classic pulled pork. The combination of tender, smoky pork with a kick of spicy chipotle sauce creates a mouthwatering filling that's perfect for tacos.
Whether you're looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a satisfying meal, these tacos won't disappoint. Serve them with fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, and lime for an added burst of flavor.
Making Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork is easier than you might think. With a slow cooker or a Dutch oven, you can achieve perfectly tender meat that falls apart with a fork. The marinade infuses the pork with deep flavors, while the spices give it just the right amount of heat.
Prepare for a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Diced onions, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Once seared, transfer the pork to a slow cooker or a Dutch oven.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Stir in the brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, and minced chipotle peppers, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, then pour the mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is fork-tender. If using a Dutch oven, cover and cook in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 4-5 hours.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, let the pulled pork rest for about 15 minutes after cooking before shredding it with two forks. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more flavorful meat.
Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your heat preference, and don't hesitate to experiment with toppings like avocado or hot sauce to customize your tacos. Enjoy!
Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that are perfect for any gathering or casual meal. The tender, slow-cooked pork infused with a rich barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with soft slider buns and fresh toppings, making these sliders a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a game day party, or simply indulging in some comfort food, these sliders are sure to impress with their tropical twist.
To make these sliders, you'll need to start by preparing the pulled pork. A pork shoulder, often referred to as pork butt, is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling and ability to become tender when cooked low and slow. The addition of pineapple juice in the marinade brings a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the barbecue sauce, making these sliders a true taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably Hawaiian-style)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 slider buns
- Sliced pineapple (optional for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by placing the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Pour this marinade over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining juices.
Serve the pulled pork on slider buns, topped with sliced pineapple and coleslaw if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight in the pineapple juice and spices before cooking. This allows the meat to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Additionally, if you prefer a smoky flavor, you can add a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade or cook the pork on a grill instead of in a slow cooker. Enjoy your Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with a rejuvenating beverage for the ultimate experience!
Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork Bowls
Asian-inspired pulled pork bowls offer a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Asia. With tender, slow-cooked pork infused with a savory blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with vibrant vegetables and zingy sauces, these bowls are as visually appealing as they're delicious. This recipe isn't only easy to make but also allows for customization according to your taste preferences.
Whether you're a fan of spicy sriracha or prefer a sweeter hoisin sauce, you can adapt the toppings to create the perfect balance. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cooked rice (jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Sriracha sauce (optional for serving)
- Hoisin sauce (optional for serving)
To prepare the pulled pork, start by combining the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl.
Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over it. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining juices.
To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of pulled pork, followed by a handful of coleslaw mix.
Finish with slices of green onions and chopped cilantro for added freshness. Drizzle with sriracha or hoisin sauce if desired for an extra kick!
Extra Tips:
For a variation, you can add pickled vegetables or steamed edamame for an added crunch and flavor.
If you're short on time, feel free to use store-bought pulled pork or rotisserie chicken, and simply toss it in the sauce for a quick meal.
Additionally, consider making extra pork to freeze for future meals; it reheats beautifully and can be used in various dishes. Enjoy your delicious Asian-inspired pulled pork bowls!
Sweet and Tangy Pulled Pork With Pineapple
Sweet and Tangy Pulled Pork With Pineapple is a delightful twist on the classic pulled pork recipe, combining the savory flavors of tender pork with the sweetness of pineapple. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a weekend cookout, as the tropical fruit adds a revitalizing zing that complements the smoky barbecue taste.
The sweet and tangy sauce elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture with a burst of flavor, slow-cooking is the way to go. This method allows the pork to absorb all the flavors from the marinade and become incredibly tender.
Paired with some coleslaw and served on toasted buns, Sweet and Tangy Pulled Pork With Pineapple is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh pineapple slices (for garnish)
- Buns, for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
To prepare the Sweet and Tangy Pulled Pork With Pineapple, start by mixing the pineapple juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Place the pork shoulder into a slow cooker and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the pork is well coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. After shredding the pork, return it to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining juices.
If desired, serve the pulled pork on toasted buns, topped with fresh pineapple slices and coleslaw for added crunch and flavor. This dish can also be served with rice or on its own as a hearty meal.
Extra Tips: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick. If using a grill, you can also finish the pulled pork over indirect heat for a few minutes to achieve a smoky crust.
Additionally, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat gently before serving!
Smokehouse Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Smokehouse Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines the smoky flavors of pulled pork with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese. It's the perfect way to elevate a classic favorite, making it a hearty meal that's ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in.
The combination of tender, flavorful pulled pork and cheesy pasta creates a satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use leftover pulled pork or make it from scratch. The key to achieving that smokehouse flavor is to use a good quality BBQ sauce and smoked cheese, which enhances the overall taste. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious mac and cheese that's sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded smoked cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pulled pork (cooked and warmed)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the smoked cheddar cheese until it's fully melted and smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and pulled pork, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions to the mac and cheese before baking.
If you prefer a crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top and bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
This dish isn't only great for dinner but also makes for incredible leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Slow Cooker for Pulled Pork Recipes?
Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker for pulled pork recipes! It's an easy way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. Just season, set it, and let it cook low and slow for delicious results.
What Type of Meat Is Best for Pulled Pork?
When it comes to pulled pork, you can't go wrong with pork shoulder or butt. These cuts have the right balance of fat and meat, ensuring your dish turns out tender and flavorful every time.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
To store leftover pulled pork, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to four days or freeze it for several months. Just reheat before serving!
Can I Freeze Pulled Pork for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze pulled pork for later use! Just pack it in airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove excess air. When you're ready, thaw it in the fridge for delicious meals ahead.
What Sides Pair Well With Pulled Pork Dishes?
When you serve pulled pork, consider pairing it with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad. These sides complement the flavors beautifully, enhancing your meal and creating a satisfying dining experience for everyone.
