The Ultimate Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Discovering the Magic of Pulled Pork

My Favorite is Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches and I love to cook, the first time I made pulled pork sandwiches. It was a lazy Sunday, and I wanted to make something special for a family gathering. I had heard about using cola in a marinade, but I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. Still, I decided to give it a try. As I watched the pork cook in the Instant Pot, the house filled with a sweet and smoky aroma. I couldn’t help but get excited, knowing something delicious was coming together.

The Secret Ingredient – Cola

The idea of using cola was a bit strange at first, but I trusted the process. The sweetness from the soda mixed with the tang of BBQ sauce was just the right balance. As the pork cooked, the cola helped tenderize the meat, making it so soft that it practically fell apart when I started shredding it. The best part? It didn’t taste sugary—it just added a subtle depth to the flavors. It was my little secret that I knew would surprise my family.

Adding My Personal Touch

Once the pork was done, I mixed in a bit more BBQ sauce to make it extra juicy. But I didn’t stop there. I’ve always loved a little crunch in my sandwiches, so I topped the pulled pork with a fresh, tangy coleslaw. The combination of the tender pork and the crisp slaw was perfect. The soft hamburger buns soaked up the juices, making every bite irresistible. It was comfort food at its finest, and I knew I had created something memorable.

A Recipe for Every Occasion

Now, I make these Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches for all kinds of gatherings—whether it’s a casual game day, a birthday party, or just a weeknight dinner. They’re always a hit. I’ve even started experimenting with different BBQ sauces and toppings to change things up. What I love most is how easy the recipe is, yet it always leaves a lasting impression. These sandwiches are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting treat that brings everyone together.

Chef’s Notes-Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches

• When cutting the pork shoulder, aim for even-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking, whether in an Instant Pot or slow cooker.
• Using cola adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat. Root beer or Dr Pepper can be swapped for subtle flavor changes, or ginger ale if you prefer less sweetness.
• For deeper flavors, combine a smoky BBQ sauce with a sweeter one. You can experiment with different BBQ sauces depending on the flavor profile you want (e.g., honey BBQ or chipotle).
• Coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the pulled pork. You can also add pickles, jalapeños, or onions for texture and zing.
• Opt for soft, lightly toasted buns. Brioche buns or potato rolls also work great due to their slight sweetness and fluffy texture, which complement the pulled pork.
• Pulled pork can be made a day ahead and reheated with extra BBQ sauce to keep it juicy. This also makes it perfect for meal prep or larger gatherings.
• If you’re using a slow cooker, resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking, as this will release heat and slow down the cooking process.

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Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Southern RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

sandwiches

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

605

kcal

Resting Time

10

minutes

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches! Perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines tender pork shoulder with a delightful blend of BBQ sauce and cola, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, these sandwiches are sure to impress. With easy-to-follow instructions and a few secret tips, you’ll be serving up a dish that’s both comforting and unforgettable. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds pork shoulder divided into four sizable pieces

• 1 can cola beverage substitute with root beer or Dr Pepper if desired

• 2 cups BBQ sauce your favorite (see note for variations)

• ¼ cup light brown sugar packed

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 ½ teaspoons granulated garlic

• ¾ teaspoon powdered onion

• 4 soft hamburger buns for serving

Directions

• Preparing the Pork – Begin by placing the pork shoulder pieces into a lightly oiled Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Pour the cola beverage over the meat to infuse it with sweetness.
• Mixing the Sauce – In a separate bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of BBQ sauce with the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, granulated garlic, and powdered onion. Mix well until smooth and pour this mixture over the pork.
• Shredding the Pork – Using two forks, shred the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the shredded pork to a bowl using a slotted spoon and discard the liquid from the pot.
• Slow Cooker Method – For slow cooker preparation, follow the same steps but cook on low heat for approximately 6 hours before shredding.
• Slow Cooker Method – For slow cooker preparation, follow the same steps but cook on low heat for approximately 6 hours before shredding.

Equipment

• instant pot
• Slow Cooker
• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• Mixing bowls

Notes

• For an extra burst of flavor, try mixing two different types of BBQ sauce—perhaps a sweet and smoky combination. Serve these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also add toppings like pickles or jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 605kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 93mg
• Sodium: 1551mg
• Potassium: 843mg
• Carbohydrates: 89g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 60g
• Protein: 33g
• Vitamin A: 276IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 147mg
• Iron: 4mg

FAQ-Savory Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Yes! You can braise the pork shoulder in a Dutch oven. Cook it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 hours until tender.

Can I freeze leftover pulled pork?

Absolutely. Store the shredded pork in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat with extra BBQ sauce for added moisture.

What can I serve with these pulled pork sandwiches?

Pair the sandwiches with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter side.

Can I use a different cut of meat if I don’t have pork shoulder?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs or beef chuck roast as substitutes. Both will shred nicely and absorb the sauce well.

How do I keep the pork from drying out?

Be sure to use enough liquid (cola and BBQ sauce) during cooking. If reheating, mix in extra BBQ sauce to keep the pork moist.