Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich: A Classic Backyard BBQ Favorite
The Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich is a classic choice for any BBQ enthusiast. The combination of tender pulled pork, smoky BBQ sauce, and a perfectly grilled bun makes for a satisfying meal that’s ideal for family gatherings or backyard cookouts. Whether you’re grilling on a sunny afternoon or looking for a hearty dinner, this sandwich hits all the right notes. Let’s walk through how to make this delicious BBQ favorite!
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt
For the best grilled BBQ pork, start with a bone-in pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts have enough fat to keep the pork juicy and tender while slow cooking. The pork is naturally flavorful, and when grilled, it gains an added smoky taste. Make sure the pork is well-marbled for the best texture and richness when pulled.
BBQ Sauce
The BBQ sauce you choose can make a big difference in flavor. A tangy, vinegar-based sauce works well for cutting through the richness of the pork, while a sweeter tomato-based BBQ sauce adds a rich, smoky flavor. You can also experiment with different BBQ styles, such as honey BBQ, mustard-based sauce, or spicy sauces, depending on your taste.
Grilled Buns
The right bun is key to holding all the juicy, flavorful ingredients together. Opt for soft, sturdy buns like brioche or potato rolls that can withstand the sauce and pork without falling apart. Toasting the buns lightly on the grill adds an extra touch of texture and flavor.
Slow Cooking the Pork
Preparing the Pork
Start by seasoning your pork with a dry rub made of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the pork generously with the seasoning and let it sit for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb. If you have time, marinate the pork overnight for even more intense flavor. Once seasoned, place the pork in a slow cooker or smoker to cook low and slow.
Cooking the Pork
Slow-cook the pork for 8-10 hours on low in a slow cooker or smoke it for 10-12 hours at a low temperature (around 225°F) until the pork is tender and easily shreds. If you’re using a slow cooker, you can add a little apple cider vinegar or chicken broth to help keep the pork moist. After cooking, remove the pork and shred it with two forks, mixing it with some of the juices for extra flavor.
Grilling the Pork and Assembling the Sandwich
Grilling the Shredded Pork
Once the pork is cooked and shredded, it’s time to give it that signature grilled flavor. Heat your grill to medium-high heat and place the shredded pork in a grill-safe pan or directly on the grill in a foil packet. Grill the pork for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it gets crispy edges and a smoky flavor. This step adds a nice texture to the pork and makes it even more flavorful.
Toasting the Buns
While the pork is grilling, toast the buns lightly on the grill. Butter the cut sides of the buns and place them on the grill for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. Toasting the buns ensures they won’t get soggy from the juicy pork and BBQ sauce, providing a nice crunch to the sandwich.
Adding Toppings to Your Sandwich
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw is the perfect topping for your grilled BBQ pork sandwich. The cool, crunchy slaw complements the rich, smoky pork and adds a nice balance of flavor and texture. To make the coleslaw, mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. You can also add some mustard or celery seed for extra flavor.
Pickles and Onions
Pickles and onions add acidity and crunch, which balance the richness of the pulled pork. Sliced dill pickles are a classic choice, but you can also use sweet pickles or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick. Red onions add mild heat and flavor, but you can pickle the onions for an added tangy punch.
Making a Homemade BBQ Sauce
BBQ Sauce Recipe
A homemade BBQ sauce can elevate your grilled pork sandwich. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a little mustard. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper for the perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and smokiness. Let the sauce simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Customizing the BBQ Sauce
If you prefer a spicier BBQ sauce, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper. For a sweeter version, increase the amount of brown sugar or honey. You can also experiment with adding different spices like cumin or chili powder for a deeper, richer flavor. Make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Choosing the Right Bun
Best Bun for the Sandwich
The best buns for a grilled BBQ pork sandwich are soft but sturdy enough to handle the juicy pulled pork and BBQ sauce. Brioche buns offer a slightly sweet, soft texture that complements the rich pork. Potato rolls are another excellent choice for their soft and pillowy texture. Both options are perfect for holding all the ingredients together.
Toasting the Bun
Toasting the buns on the grill adds a crisp texture and prevents them from becoming soggy from the BBQ sauce. Butter the cut side of the buns before toasting them on the grill for extra flavor. Toasting also adds a slightly smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the sandwich.
Serving the Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich
Classic Sides
Serve your Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich with classic sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad. French fries are always a great complement, providing a crunchy contrast to the rich sandwich. Onion rings add a crispy, savory touch, while a fresh salad provides a refreshing balance to the heaviness of the pork.
Extra Toppings
For extra richness, add a fried egg on top of your BBQ pork sandwich. The creamy yolk will add another layer of indulgence to the sandwich. You can also add avocado slices for a smooth, buttery texture, or drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top for an extra smoky kick.
Tips for the Best Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich
Slow Cook for Tenderness
Don’t rush the cooking process. The key to tender, juicy pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. Whether using a slow cooker or smoker, let the pork cook for several hours to ensure it’s tender enough to shred. This slow cooking process is what gives the pork its juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Keep the Pork Moist
To prevent your pulled pork from drying out, add a little liquid during the cooking process. If you’re using a slow cooker, you can add apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, or even beer to keep the pork moist. In a smoker, consider spritzing the pork with liquid to keep it juicy while it cooks.
Making It Your Own
Spice It Up
If you like a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your BBQ pork sandwich. Mix these spicy elements into the pulled pork or add them as toppings for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the spice level to your liking to make it as mild or fiery as you prefer.
Sweeten It Up
For those who enjoy a sweeter flavor, add some caramelized onions or grilled pineapple slices to your sandwich. The sweetness from these additions balances out the savory richness of the pulled pork and BBQ sauce. Pineapple, in particular, adds a tropical sweetness that complements the smoky flavors of the sandwich.
Vegan Option
For a vegan twist on this sandwich, swap the pulled pork with jackfruit, which has a texture similar to pulled pork. Jackfruit soaks up the BBQ sauce beautifully and makes an excellent plant-based alternative. Pair it with vegan coleslaw and a soft vegan bun for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder and pork butt are ideal for slow cooking, you can also use boneless pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind the texture may be slightly different.
How long should I cook the pork?
In a slow cooker, cook the pork for 8-10 hours on low. If using a smoker, cook for 10-12 hours at around 225°F until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Can I make the pulled pork in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled pork ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Grilled BBQ Pork Sandwich is a delicious, hearty meal that combines smoky pulled pork, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce all in one. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or slow cooking for an easy meal, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve it with your favorite sides and toppings for a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.