Smoky BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich with Homemade BBQ Sauce

The BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich is a savory, smoky delight that combines tender pulled pork with crispy bacon and a tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for BBQ enthusiasts and sandwich lovers, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a weekend BBQ, this sandwich will quickly become a crowd favorite. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious and indulgent sandwich.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt

For the most flavorful and tender pulled pork, opt for a bone-in pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts of meat are perfect for slow cooking as they become tender and juicy over time. The fat marbling in these cuts keeps the pork moist and flavorful, making it ideal for a BBQ pork sandwich. Look for a piece of meat with a good amount of fat for the best texture.

Crispy Bacon

Thick-cut bacon is essential for adding crunch to your sandwich. The bacon should be crispy, but not overly brittle, so it adds a satisfying crunch without overpowering the pulled pork. Cook the bacon to your desired level of crispiness, and it will complement the richness of the pulled pork perfectly.

BBQ Sauce

The BBQ sauce is the star of this sandwich. Choose a tangy vinegar-based BBQ sauce or a rich, sweet tomato-based sauce, depending on your preference. The BBQ sauce should have the right balance of sweetness, acidity, and smokiness to elevate the flavors of the pulled pork and bacon. You can either use store-bought or make your own homemade sauce to add a personalized touch.

Slow Cooking the Pork

Preparing the Pork

Begin by seasoning your pork with a dry rub of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the pork sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. If you prefer, marinate the pork overnight for even deeper flavor. Once seasoned, place the pork in a slow cooker or smoker to cook low and slow until it’s perfectly tender.

Cooking the Pork

Cook the pork for 8-10 hours on low in a slow cooker or up to 12 hours in a smoker. The pork should be so tender that it easily shreds when you pull it apart with two forks. If using a slow cooker, you can add a small amount of apple cider vinegar or chicken broth to keep the pork moist. After cooking, shred the pork, mixing it with some of the juices for extra flavor.

Assembling the BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich

Shredding the Pork

Once the pork is tender and easy to shred, remove it from the slow cooker or smoker. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. The pork should fall apart easily, with a juicy and flavorful texture. After shredding, mix the pork with some of the cooking juices to enhance the moisture and flavor.

Cooking the Bacon

While the pork is cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. Drain the excess fat on paper towels, and keep the bacon warm until ready to assemble the sandwich. The crispy bacon adds a perfect crunch that complements the tender pork. You can chop the bacon into smaller pieces or keep the strips whole, depending on your preference.

Adding Toppings to Your Sandwich

Coleslaw

A classic tangy coleslaw pairs perfectly with BBQ pork, adding a refreshing crunch. Make your coleslaw by mixing shredded cabbage, carrots, and a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt. The tanginess of the coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the BBQ pork and crispy bacon, making each bite more refreshing.

Pickles and Onions

Add slices of pickles and red onions for a bit of acidity and crunch. The pickles cut through the richness of the pork and bacon, while the onions add a mild bite. If you want an extra zing, consider pickling the onions for a tangier flavor. These toppings help to balance the richness of the meat with their sharpness.

Making a Homemade BBQ Sauce

BBQ Sauce Recipe

To make your own BBQ sauce, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of mustard for a tangy base. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper to give the sauce a smoky flavor. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld together.

Adjusting the Sauce

Customize your BBQ sauce to suit your tastes. If you like a spicier sauce, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper. For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of brown sugar or honey. The beauty of homemade BBQ sauce is that you can adjust it to your liking, ensuring it’s perfect for your sandwich.

Choosing the Right Bun

Best Bun for the Sandwich

For a BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich, choose a soft, sturdy bun that can hold the pulled pork and bacon without falling apart. Brioche buns are an excellent choice, offering a slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. Alternatively, potato rolls provide a soft and pillowy option that complements the richness of the pork and bacon.

Toasting the Bun

Toasting the buns gives them an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy pork and crispy bacon. Butter the buns lightly and toast them in a skillet, on the grill, or in the oven. Toasting also helps prevent the buns from getting soggy, keeping the sandwich firm and enjoyable.

Serving the BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich

Classic Sides

Serve your BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich with classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or baked beans. French fries offer a satisfying crunch that complements the richness of the sandwich. Sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness, while baked beans provide a smoky, savory contrast. All these sides complement the flavors of the sandwich perfectly.

Garnishing with Extra Toppings

For an even more indulgent sandwich, you can add extra toppings like a fried egg for richness or fresh avocado slices for creaminess. If you like extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Experiment with different toppings to make your sandwich truly your own.

Tips for the Best BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich

Slow Cooking Is Essential

Don’t rush the cooking process. The key to a juicy, tender pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. Whether using a slow cooker or smoker, allow the pork to cook for several hours so the meat becomes tender and easily shreddable. This step is crucial for getting the best texture and flavor.

Keep the Pork Moist

To ensure your pulled pork stays juicy, be sure to add some liquid to the slow cooker or smoker. Apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, or even beer are great options. The liquid will keep the meat moist and add extra flavor to the pork as it cooks.

Making It Your Own

Spice It Up

For those who like a little heat, try adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your BBQ pork. You can mix the spice into the pulled pork or use it as a topping. Adjust the level of heat according to your taste to add a spicy kick to your sandwich.

Sweet and Tangy Twist

If you prefer a sweeter BBQ sandwich, consider adding some pineapple slices or a sweet fruit-based BBQ sauce. Pineapple’s natural sweetness pairs well with the smoky pork, and it adds a tropical twist to the flavor profile.

Vegan Option

For a vegan version of the BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich, you can swap the pulled pork with jackfruit. Jackfruit has a similar texture to pulled pork and takes on the flavor of the BBQ sauce beautifully. You can also use plant-based bacon for a satisfying crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Answer: Yes! Pork shoulder and pork butt are ideal, but you can also use pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

How long should I cook the pork?

Answer: In a slow cooker, cook the pork for 8-10 hours on low. If using a smoker, cook it for 10-12 hours at around 225°F until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

Can I prepare the pulled pork ahead of time?

Answer: Yes! You can prepare the pulled pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving for the best texture.

Can I make the BBQ sauce in advance?

Answer: Absolutely! You can make the BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Conclusion

The BBQ Pork with Bacon Sandwich is the ultimate combination of smoky, tender pulled pork and crispy bacon, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun. With your choice of classic or creative toppings, this sandwich is sure to impress. Whether for a casual dinner or a BBQ gathering, it’s the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings.