Irresistible BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers with Creamy Apple Coleslaw

Prepare for a flavor explosion with these incredible BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers! Combining succulent, smoky pulled pork, crisp and tangy apple coleslaw, and crunchy pickles, all nestled in your favorite burger buns, this recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will leave you craving more. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary journey designed to delight your taste buds and satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Crafted using a tried-and-true BBQ pulled pork recipe, these burgers are a phenomenal choice for feeding a crowd, making them perfect for game days, backyard barbecues, or any gathering where delicious food is a must. They guarantee satisfaction and are incredibly versatile. Serve them simply on their own, allowing the rich flavors to shine, or alongside a generous helping of crispy chips or golden fries for a classic pairing. And if you’re a fan of pulled meat in a bun, be sure to explore our equally delectable pulled beef burgers for another fantastic option.

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Why You’ll Love These Pulled Pork Burgers

These BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. Here’s why they’ll become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Flavor: The rich, savory pulled pork coated in a tangy BBQ sauce is perfectly balanced by the sweet and crunchy apple coleslaw. Add the sharp tang of pickles, and you have a symphony of flavors in every bite.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a perfectly built burger, and this one delivers warmth and satisfaction. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and ideal for lifting spirits after a long day.
• Feeds a Crowd Effortlessly: The pulled pork component can be prepared well in advance, making these burgers an excellent choice for entertaining. You can focus on your guests while the star of the show practically makes itself.
• Customizable to Perfection: While the core recipe is stellar, these burgers invite personalization. Experiment with different buns, cheeses, and extra toppings to tailor them exactly to your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Both the pulled pork and the coleslaw can be prepped days ahead, significantly cutting down on last-minute cooking stress. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze and party planning a joy.

From the first juicy bite to the last satisfying crunch, these pulled pork burgers are designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss.

Essential Ingredients for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers

For detailed measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card below.

To create these mouthwatering pulled pork burgers, you’ll need a few key components, each playing a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture:

• The Star: BBQ Pulled Pork. You’ll need about 2-3 cups of perfectly cooked BBQ pulled pork. Our recommended easy BBQ pulled pork recipe uses a robust spice rub including paprika, garlic powder, salt, cumin, onion powder, and brown sugar for a deep, savory foundation. The homemade BBQ sauce, crafted from the rich cooking juices, is enhanced with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, a touch more sugar, and soy sauce, with optional hot sauce or chili powder for a kick. The beauty of this pork is that the slow cooker does the heavy lifting, ensuring tender, fall-apart meat with minimal effort.
• The Perfect Counterpart: Apple Coleslaw. A fresh, creamy apple coleslaw is truly pulled pork’s best friend. Its bright, crisp texture and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the pork beautifully. Made with simple ingredients like green and red cabbage, crisp apple (Granny Smith is fantastic for its tartness, but any firm apple works), Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and a hint of apple cider vinegar, it’s quick to whip up. Feel free to add finely shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• The Foundation: Burger Buns. The choice of burger bun significantly impacts the experience. While any burger bun you love will work, we highly recommend potato buns for their soft texture and slight sweetness that complements the savory pork. If you prefer a richer flavor, brioche buns are an excellent choice. Ensure they are fresh and sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
• Optional Toppings for Extra Zing: Customize your burgers with additional toppings. Sliced cheddar cheese melts wonderfully and adds a creamy, sharp layer. For a classic tang and crunch, pickle chips (gherkins) are essential. Alternatively, our vibrant quick pink pickled onions offer a fantastic sweet and sour bite that’s visually appealing too. Consider fresh red onion slices, jalapeños for heat, or even a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for herbaceous freshness.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to crafting a burger that’s truly extraordinary.

Mastering the BBQ Pulled Pork: Step-by-Step

The beauty of these pulled pork burgers (or pulled pork sandwiches, as they’re sometimes called) lies in their simplicity, especially since the star ingredient—the pulled pork—can be prepared well in advance. This makes them ideal for convenient weeknight meals or stress-free entertaining. If you’re preparing the pork ahead of time, it can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or even frozen for up to 3 months.

For precise measurements and full instructions, consult the complete recipe card at the end of this article.

1. Preparing the Pulled Pork

The journey to perfect pulled pork begins with selecting and preparing your cut of meat. Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt (despite the name, it’s from the shoulder, not the rear!), is the ideal choice due to its excellent marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully during slow cooking, yielding incredibly tender and juicy results.

1. Prepare the Pork: Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large, manageable chunks, roughly 2-3 inches in size. This helps the seasoning penetrate better and allows for more even cooking. Generously massage the pork chunks with your chosen spice rub – a blend typically featuring paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, brown sugar, and salt creates a flavorful crust. Ensure every piece is thoroughly coated.

2. Sear for Flavor: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat with a little oil. Brown the pork chunks on all sides until nicely caramelized. This crucial step develops a rich depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, adding a delicious crust to the meat. Be careful not to let the seasoning burn in the pan, adjusting heat as needed.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection: Transfer the browned pork to a slow cooker (or crock pot). Add sliced onion and a generous amount of apple cider (not apple cider vinegar, but the actual beverage, which adds a lovely sweetness and helps tenderize the meat). Cook on high for approximately 3-3 ½ hours, or on low for 6-8 hours, until the pork is incredibly tender and can be easily pulled apart with two forks. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your pork chunks.

4. Create the BBQ Sauce: Carefully remove the tender pork to a chopping board. Pour the flavorful cooking juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Add the remaining sauce ingredients (Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and any optional hot sauce) to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, allowing the sauce to reduce by about half, or until it reaches your desired thickness (approximately 2 cups). This reduction concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, glossy BBQ sauce.

5. Shred and Combine: Using two forks, shred the cooked pork directly on the chopping board. It should come apart effortlessly. Once shredded, transfer the pork back into the slow cooker or a large bowl, pour the reduced BBQ sauce over the top, and stir well to ensure every strand of pork is coated in that delicious, sticky sauce. It’s now ready to be served or stored for later!

2. Crafting the Perfect Apple Coleslaw

This creamy apple coleslaw is a beloved staple in our home, and it’s no coincidence that it pairs exquisitely with pulled pork, especially in these burgers. Its crisp texture and refreshing flavor provide a vital counterpoint to the rich, savory pork. You have control over the texture: for maximum crunch, dress the coleslaw close to serving time. If you prefer a softer, slightly marinated slaw, you can prepare it a day ahead.

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit: Begin by thinly slicing both red and green cabbage. The combination adds beautiful color and a variety of textures. Next, julienne an apple – Granny Smith is our top choice for its delightful tartness, which provides a fantastic contrast. However, feel free to use your favorite crisp apple variety. If desired, you can also add finely shredded carrots for extra sweetness and vibrant color.
2. Whip Up the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ingredients for the coleslaw dressing. This typically includes Greek yogurt for a creamy base and a tangy kick, mayonnaise for richness, and apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine and Toss: Add the prepared cabbage and apple (and carrots, if using) to the dressing in the large bowl. Using tongs or a large spoon, give it a good toss until all the vegetables and apple are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. If making ahead, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Assembling Your Dream Pulled Pork Burgers

With your mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork and refreshing apple coleslaw ready, it’s time for the best part: assembling your incredible pulled pork sandwiches! This is where all the components come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures.

1. Warm the Buns (Optional but Recommended): For an extra layer of deliciousness, lightly warm and toast your burger buns. Brush the cut sides of each bun with a little melted butter. Then, place them cut-side down under a broiler or on a grill pan for a minute or two until they are lightly golden and warmed through. This slight toastiness adds texture and helps prevent the buns from getting soggy.
2. Layer the Pulled Pork: Generously pile the hot, saucy BBQ pulled pork onto the bottom half of each warmed burger bun. Don’t be shy – the pork is the star of the show!
3. Add the Coleslaw: On top of the pulled pork, add an equally generous portion of the creamy apple coleslaw. Its cool, crisp texture and tangy flavor provide the perfect contrast to the rich, warm pork.
4. Final Touches: We adore topping these burgers with spicy pickle chips or classic gherkins for a burst of sharp, briny flavor and an added crunch.
5. Customize to Your Liking: While these pulled pork burgers are perfectly juicy and flavorful as described, feel free to add your favorite condiments. A drizzle of extra mayonnaise, a dollop of your preferred barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can elevate the experience. Gherkin relish makes a fantastic alternative to pickle chips, and a sweet caramelised onion relish or a vibrant chilli jam can introduce exciting new flavor dimensions.
6. Don’t Forget the Cheese (If Desired): If you’re a cheese lover, a slice of cheddar cheese tucked in with the warm pork will melt beautifully, adding a creamy, savory layer that’s simply irresistible. Provolone or Monterey Jack are also excellent choices for a different cheesy experience.

Remember: You do you! Use this recipe as your ultimate guide, then feel free to customize your burgers with any additional toppings or sauces that you and your family love. The goal is to create a burger that perfectly suits your taste!

Tips and Tricks for Pulled Pork Perfection

Achieving truly magnificent pulled pork is simple with a few insider tips:

• Choose the Right Cut: Always opt for pork shoulder (Boston butt). Its fat and connective tissue render down beautifully, resulting in moist, tender, and easily shreddable meat. Leaner cuts will dry out.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the pork before slow cooking adds a crucial layer of flavor. It creates a rich, caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste of the finished dish.
• Slow Cooker Liquid: While apple cider adds a lovely sweetness and helps tenderize, you can also use chicken broth, beer, or even root beer for different flavor profiles in your pulled pork. Ensure there’s enough liquid to braise the meat without submerging it entirely.
• Rest the Pork: After cooking, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor.
• Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your sauce isn’t thick enough after reduction, you can make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and whisk it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your spice rub and BBQ sauce before and after cooking. Adjust salt, sugar, or heat levels to your preference. A good BBQ sauce needs to balance sweet, savory, and tangy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers are perfect for meal prepping and entertaining thanks to their make-ahead friendly components:

BBQ Pulled Pork:

• Refrigeration: Once the pulled pork is cooked and mixed with the sauce, allow it to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Pulled pork freezes exceptionally well. Portion cooled pork into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat pulled pork in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but stir frequently to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too dry.

Apple Coleslaw:

• Dressing Components: The cabbage, apple, and dressing can be prepped separately. Keep the sliced cabbage and julienned apple in an airtight container in the fridge, and the dressing in a separate container for up to 2-3 days.
• Assembled Coleslaw: For the best crunchy texture, mix the dressing with the cabbage and apple just before serving. If you prefer a softer coleslaw where the flavors have melded more, you can dress it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The apple may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Having these components ready makes assembling your burgers a breeze, allowing for more enjoyment and less kitchen time!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

While these BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers are a complete meal on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

• Classic Companions:
  • Crispy Fries or Chips: A timeless pairing. Whether thick-cut fries, sweet potato fries, or your favorite brand of potato chips, their salty crunch is the perfect foil to the rich burger.
  • Onion Rings: Golden, crispy onion rings add another layer of texture and savory goodness.
• Fresh & Light Options:
  • Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the pork and coleslaw, offering a refreshing contrast.
  • Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn, grilled or boiled, is a classic barbecue side that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Heartier Sides:
  • Baked Beans: Slow-cooked baked beans with a touch of molasses and bacon are a traditional and satisfying pairing for any BBQ dish.
  • Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese offers another layer of comfort and indulgence.
  • Potato Salad: A classic creamy potato salad or a tangy vinegar-based version would be excellent.
• Beverage Pairings:
  • Craft Beer: A crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a smoky porter would complement the BBQ flavors.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing non-alcoholic options that cut through the richness.

No matter what you choose to serve alongside, these burgers are guaranteed to be the star of the show!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make pulled pork without a slow cooker?

A: Yes! You can make pulled pork in an oven by roasting it in a Dutch oven or a covered baking dish at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for several hours until fork-tender. An Instant Pot or pressure cooker can also significantly reduce cooking time, producing tender pork in about 60-90 minutes of pressure cooking, followed by natural release.

Q: How do I prevent my burger buns from getting soggy?

A: To prevent soggy buns, lightly toast them before assembling your burgers. Brushing them with a little melted butter and grilling or broiling them creates a barrier. Also, avoid over-saucing the pork initially; you can always add more sauce on the side for dipping.

Q: What if I don’t like apple in my coleslaw?

A: No problem! You can easily omit the apple from the coleslaw recipe. Alternatively, substitute it with other crisp vegetables like jicama for a different kind of crunch, or add more carrots for sweetness.

Q: Can I use pre-made pulled pork?

A: While homemade pulled pork offers the best flavor, you can certainly use good quality pre-made pulled pork for convenience. Just make sure to season it to your liking and add extra BBQ sauce if needed before serving.

Q: What other toppings go well with pulled pork burgers?

A: Beyond the suggested pickles and cheese, consider adding crispy fried onions, thinly sliced red onions, a dollop of a creamy ranch dressing, fresh jalapeño slices for heat, or even a fried egg for an indulgent twist.

More Mouthwatering Recipes to Explore

If you loved these BBQ Pulled Pork Burgers, you’ll definitely want to try some of these other fantastic recipes:

• Pulled Beef Burgers
• Turkey Smash Burgers
• Crispy Chicken Burgers
• Slow Cooked Pulled Lamb Shoulder

Pulled Pork Burgers

Yield:

4
serves

Prep Time:

30 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

4 hours
hours

0 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

4 hours
hours
30 minutes
minutes

These BBQ pulled pork burgers are a comforting dinner perfect for prepping ahead for an easy weeknight dinner or a game day feast.

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