Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Try this Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork Sandwiches recipe.
Try this Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork Sandwiches recipe.
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 small red onion diced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 3 lb boneless pork shoulder
- 3 tablespoons homemade steak rub (i always have this on hand. it
- king's hawaiian hamburger buns for serving
- 1/2 cup louisiana hot sauce
- 11/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 head of cabbage (outer leaves removed) cut and shredded or chopped
- Carbohydrate 2.78665857783095 g
- Cholesterol 106.668062342681 mg
- Fat 40.5027998761169 g
- Fiber 0.189441667096139 g
- Protein 20.2760333058073 g
- Saturated Fat 14.3568703084439 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (196g)
- Sodium 501.013255744946 mg
- Sugar 2.59721691073481 g
- Trans Fat 3.49479853886774 g
- Calories 460 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare the slow cooker by using a slow cooker liner.
- On a large cutting mat, massage pork generously with homemade steak rub.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil on medium-high heat and brown all sides of the pork.
- Once the pork is evenly browned on all sides, carefully transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add ½ cup of chicken stock to the skillet to get all the tasty bits left behind and carefully pour over pork in the slow cooker.
- If there is any spice rub left on the cutting mat, also pour into the slow cooker.
- Cook for 8 hours on low.
- About 30 minutes before serving prepare the homemade buffalo sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients.
- Once the butter has melted add in the remaining ingredients and whisk well to combine.
- Bring to a light simmer while continuing to whisk and turn off before it gets to a boil.
- Set to the side to cool before serving.
- To make the slaw combine cabbage and onion in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, add ranch dressing, olive oil, vinegar, celery salt and pepper; whisk to combine.
- Pour dressing mixture over cabbage and toss.
- Make sure all the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing mixture.
- By the time you are ready to take the pork out of the slow cooker, it should fall apart; transfer to a cutting mat.
- With two forks tear the pork into bite sized pieces, if needed.
- If anyone you are serving doesn't like the spiciness of buffalo sauce, reserve the liquid left behind in the slow cooker.
- Carefully strain the liquid into a large saucepan (or skillet) and heat to reduce and thicken.
- If needed, you can use a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water.
- To serve, open the hamburger buns and place a generous serving of pork on the bottom bun.
- Drizzle 2 - 3 tablespoons of homemade buffalo sauce over pork and top with a generous serving of slaw.
- Top with the remaining bun and devour!
Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a blur of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending to-do list. But that doesn't mean we should compromise on good food. That’s where this slow cooker buffalo pulled pork sandwich recipe comes in – a lifesaver on busy evenings!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. It's a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup, a huge bonus after a long day. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the pork shoulder to become incredibly tender and flavorful while I attend to other things. I can start it in the morning before heading to work, and by dinner time, the aromatic, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork is ready. It's the perfect example of smart cooking for busy people.
The tangy buffalo sauce adds a delicious kick, perfectly balanced by the creamy slaw. The homemade slaw is a quick and easy addition that elevates the sandwich from good to extraordinary. I often double the slaw recipe as it’s incredibly versatile and works wonders as a side with grilled chicken or fish. The combination of textures and flavors is truly addictive. Each bite is a party in my mouth!
Beyond the Busy Weeknight: While this recipe is my go-to for a busy weeknight dinner, it's also incredibly versatile for entertaining. The pulled pork can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for parties or gatherings. Simply store the pulled pork in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving. It's also incredibly satisfying and filling, perfect for game day or any casual get-together.
Tips and Tricks for Perfection:
- Don't skip the browning step: Browning the pork shoulder before adding it to the slow cooker creates a delicious crust and enhances the overall flavor of the pulled pork.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the buffalo sauce to your liking. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Make it your own: This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Add different vegetables to the slaw, or use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the buffalo sauce. The possibilities are endless.
- Homemade is best: While store-bought ranch dressing and steak rub can be used, the flavors are significantly enhanced using homemade versions. I've provided the links to my family recipes below, which are simple and add a special touch.
This slow cooker buffalo pulled pork sandwich recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of efficient and delicious cooking. It’s a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can enjoy a homemade meal that tastes fantastic and brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to our families.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve on toasted brioche buns or pretzel rolls for an extra special touch.
- Pair with sweet potato fries or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
Ingredients Notes:
- Pork shoulder: Choose a boneless pork shoulder (also known as a Boston butt) for the most tender results.
- Homemade steak rub: This is a must-have in my pantry! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the pork.
- Buffalo sauce: I prefer to make my own buffalo sauce, as it allows for better control of the spice level and ingredients. However, you can use a store-bought version if you prefer.
- King's Hawaiian hamburger buns: These are my personal favorite, but any soft bun will do.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below! Your feedback is always appreciated. Enjoy!
