Introduction

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw are a classic American comfort food that’s smoky, tender, and bursting with flavor. Slow-cooked pork shoulder is shredded and smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, then piled high on soft buns and topped with creamy coleslaw for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or casual weekend meals. The combination of smoky pulled pork and crisp coleslaw creates a mouthwatering flavor contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comfort food at its finest. The pork is fall-apart tender and infused with smoky, savory flavors, while the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and creamy tang. It’s a meal that’s satisfying, fun to assemble, and brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Making it at home allows you to control the flavors and customize the toppings to your liking.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Tender & Juicy: Slow-cooked pork melts in your mouth.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet, smoky BBQ sauce paired with tangy coleslaw.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family meals, parties, and gatherings.
• Easy Assembly: Make ahead pulled pork, then assemble sandwiches quickly.
• Customizable: Add pickles, jalapeños, or extra sauces to taste.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker) or 3–4 hours (oven)
• Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 sandwiches
• Calories: ~550–600 per sandwich (approximate)
• Cuisine: American / Southern BBQ
• Course: Main Course / Sandwich

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork

• 3–4 lb pork shoulder (pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup chicken broth

For the Coleslaw

• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or mix of green & purple)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sandwiches

• 6–8 burger buns or sandwich rolls
• Extra BBQ sauce for serving (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Rub pork shoulder with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
2. Place pork in a slow cooker with chicken broth; cook on low 6–8 hours (or in oven at 325°F / 160°C for 3–4 hours).
3. Shred pork with forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
4. Prepare coleslaw by combining cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble sandwiches with pulled pork and a generous layer of coleslaw.
6. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder
   • Rub olive oil all over the pork.
   • Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a small bowl.
   • Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork.
2. Cook the Pulled Pork
   Slow Cooker Method:
   • Place pork in slow cooker, add chicken broth.
   • Cook on low for 6–8 hours until pork is tender and easily shredded.
   Oven Method:
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • Place pork in a roasting pan, add chicken broth, cover with foil, and bake 3–4 hours until tender.
3. Shred the Pork
   • Remove pork from slow cooker or oven.
   • Use two forks to shred the meat.
   • Stir in 1 cup BBQ sauce (or more to taste).
4. Prepare the Coleslaw
   • In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
   • Add mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until well combined.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches
   • Slice buns and lightly toast if desired.
   • Add a generous portion of pulled pork on each bun.
   • Top with a layer of coleslaw.
   • Drizzle extra BBQ sauce if desired.
6. Serve
   • Serve sandwiches immediately with chips, pickles, or baked beans.

How to Serve

• Serve hot for maximum flavor.
• Pair with classic sides like potato salad, baked beans, or cornbread.
• Great for game days, family dinners, or potluck gatherings.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Toast buns lightly for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess.
• Make the pulled pork a day ahead; it tastes even better as flavors meld overnight.
• Adjust spice by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper.
• Add pickles or jalapeños for an extra tangy kick.

Variations

• Carolina Style: Use vinegar-based BBQ sauce instead of tomato-based.
• Spicy BBQ: Add hot sauce or chipotle peppers to the pork.
• Pulled Chicken Version: Substitute pork with chicken breast or thighs.
• Vegan Option: Use jackfruit instead of pork and a vegan BBQ sauce.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days; coleslaw for 2 days.
• Freezing: Pulled pork freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze cooked pork without coleslaw; thaw and reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat shredded pork gently in the microwave or on stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker or roasting pan for pork
• Large mixing bowl for coleslaw
• Forks for shredding pork
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon for mixing sauces

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, make the pulled pork a day ahead and store in the fridge. Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep buns from getting soggy.

Q2: Can I use a different cut of pork?
Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal because it’s fatty and tender. Pork loin is leaner and may not shred as easily.

Q3: Can I use store-bought coleslaw?
Yes, store-bought coleslaw works fine, but homemade gives better flavor and texture.

Q4: Can I make these sandwiches gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free buns and ensure BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Q5: How spicy is this sandwich?
Mild by default; you can increase cayenne or use a spicy BBQ sauce for more heat.

Conclusion

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw are the ultimate comfort food—smoky, tender pulled pork combined with tangy, creamy coleslaw and soft buns create a flavor-packed, satisfying meal. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or casual lunches, these sandwiches are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion.