If you’re hosting a gathering and seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than the ultimate pulled pork sandwich recipe. This mouthwatering creation is not only a surefire hit with guests but also remarkably straightforward to prepare, even for large groups. Imagine tender, succulent pork shoulder that has been slowly cooked to perfection, shredded, and piled high on soft buns, dripping with tangy-sweet barbecue sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that will have your guests raving and coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Ingredients Needed for Making Pulled Pork Sandwiches for a Crowd
To ensure you have enough to feed your hungry crowd, here’s what you’ll need:
- 4-5 pounds of boneless pork shoulder or pork butt for every 10 servings
- Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth or water per roast
- 2 tablespoons of liquid smoke per roast
- 3 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- Hamburger or brioche buns (plan for 1 bun per serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, but highly recommended)
Timing
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
| 30 minutes | 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (oven) | Approximately 9-11 hours |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Pulled Pork
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Prepare the Pork: Generously season the pork shoulder or butt with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage. If you have time, let the seasoned meat rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours or refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate.
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Slow Cooker Method:
- Add the chicken broth or water and liquid smoke to the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
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Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the seasoned pork in a baking pan and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C) and the meat is pull-apart tender.
- Let the roasted pork rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding.
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Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked and slightly cooled, use two forks or your hands to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat or connective tissue.
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Add the Sauce: Transfer the shredded pork to a large bowl or back into the slow cooker. Pour in your favorite barbecue sauce and gently toss to coat the pork evenly. Adjust the sauce quantity to your desired level of sauciness.
Assembling and Serving Pulled Pork Sandwiches
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Warm the Buns: Lightly toast or warm the hamburger or brioche buns to enhance their flavor and texture.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a generous portion of the saucy pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun.
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Top with Coleslaw (Optional): If desired, add a scoop of creamy coleslaw on top of the pulled pork for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
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Serve and Enjoy! Arrange the assembled sandwiches on a platter or serve them individually. Provide extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick of flavor.
Side Dish and Beverage Suggestions
To complement your pulled pork sandwiches and create a well-rounded meal, consider serving the following sides and beverages:
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Potato Salad: A classic pairing with pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad adds a creamy, tangy element to the meal.
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Coleslaw (If Not Topping the Sandwiches): Crisp and refreshing, coleslaw is a perfect counterpart to the rich, savory pork.
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Baked Beans: Slow-cooked baked beans with a hint of sweetness and smokiness make an excellent accompaniment.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, fresh corn on the cob adds a burst of natural sweetness and texture to the spread.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Quench your guests’ thirst with a refreshing pitcher of iced tea or lemonade, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the pulled pork sandwiches.
Tips for Preparing Ahead and Feeding a Large Group
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Brine the Pork: For added moisture and flavor, consider brining the pork shoulder or butt in a saltwater solution infused with apple cider or other flavorful ingredients. Brine the meat for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours, before cooking.
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Cook in Batches: If you’re feeding a large crowd, it’s best to cook the pork in multiple batches to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
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Make Ahead and Reheat: The pulled pork can be prepared a day or two in advance and refrigerated or frozen. Reheat it slowly in the oven, slow cooker, or on the stovetop, adding extra barbecue sauce or cooking liquid as needed to prevent drying out.
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Set Up a Serving Station: Arrange the pulled pork, buns, coleslaw, and extra sauces in a designated area for guests to assemble their sandwiches. This streamlines the process and prevents bottlenecks.
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Provide Plenty of Napkins: With saucy pulled pork sandwiches, napkins are a must! Ensure you have an ample supply of sturdy napkins or paper towels for your guests.
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Consider Disposable Plates and Utensils: For larger gatherings, disposable plates and utensils can simplify cleanup and reduce the amount of dishwashing required.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 457
- Total Fat: 9.9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 1347.3mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 69g
- Dietary Fiber: 3.3g
- Sugars: 39.6g
- Protein: 17g
Conclusion
There’s no denying the allure of a perfectly executed pulled pork sandwich. With its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the task of feeding a hungry crowd with ease. From the initial preparation to the final assembly, every step is designed to ensure a memorable and delicious experience for your guests. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your cooking appliances, and get ready to impress with the best pulled pork sandwich recipe for parties!
FAQs
1- Can I use a different cut of pork?
While pork shoulder or butt is recommended for its superior tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. However, these leaner cuts may require adjustments in cooking time and method to prevent drying out.
2- Can I make pulled pork in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker?
Absolutely! Pressure cookers can significantly reduce the cooking time for pulled pork. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and adjust the liquid amount accordingly. Cook the pork until it’s fall-apart tender, typically 55-60 minutes on high pressure.
3- How long does pulled pork last in the refrigerator or freezer?
Properly stored in an airtight container, cooked pulled pork will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
4- Can I substitute the liquid smoke with something else?
If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can try using smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle powder to add a smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can smoke the pork shoulder or butt using a smoker or grill before slow-cooking it.
5- What type of barbecue sauce is best for pulled pork sandwiches?
The beauty of pulled pork sandwiches lies in their versatility. You can use your favorite store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce, whether it’s a classic Kansas City-style, Carolina mustard-based, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Choose a sauce that complements your personal taste preferences.
6- Can I make pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pulled pork is an excellent make-ahead dish. Simply shred the cooked pork, mix it with the desired amount of barbecue sauce, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve. Reheat the pulled pork gently, adding extra sauce or cooking liquid as needed to prevent drying out.
Remember, the key to success with this recipe is patience and attention to detail. By following these steps and incorporating your personal touches, you’ll create a memorable culinary experience that will have your guests raving about the best pulled pork sandwiches they’ve ever had.