Name: Classic Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Loin Sandwiches
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1.5 cups BBQ sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 lbs boneless pork loin; 8 hamburger buns

These Classic Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Loin Sandwiches feature tender pork loin in a smoky BBQ sauce, served on soft buns. Perfect for a crowd, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers bold, comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These classic slow cooker BBQ pork loin sandwiches are a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner with minimal effort. The slow cooker transforms the pork loin into tender, juicy perfection, infused with smoky BBQ sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Versatile enough to serve with coleslaw or pickles, it’s budget-friendly and ideal for meal prep, with leftovers that taste even better. The hands-off cooking and rich, satisfying taste make it a go-to for effortless, delicious dining that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Choose a Lean Cut: Pork loin works well; trim excess fat for a lighter dish.

Sear for Flavor: Browning the pork adds a rich, caramelized crust.
Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure pork fits comfortably in the slow cooker.
Shred Warm: Pull pork apart while warm for easier shredding.

Adjust Sauce: Taste and tweak BBQ sauce sweetness or tanginess.
Keep Moist: Add extra broth if pork dries out during cooking.
Toast Buns: Lightly toast sandwich buns for added texture.

Rest in Sauce: Let shredded pork sit in sauce for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Batch Prep: Double the recipe for larger crowds.
Serve Hot: Pair with sides like fries or salad for a complete meal.

Yield: 8 sandwiches

Classic Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Loin Sandwiches

Tender slow cooker BBQ pork loin sandwiches, smoky and delicious for any meal.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 15 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients

¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt

1 tsp smoked paprika
1.5 cups BBQ sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar

3 cloves garlic, minced
3 lbs boneless pork loin
8 hamburger buns

Instructions

Prep the Pork: Pat pork loin dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic, stirring until dissolved.

Cook Low and Slow: Pour the mixture over the pork, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours until fork-tender.
Shred the Pork: Remove pork, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker.
Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in BBQ sauce, coating the shredded pork evenly, and let simmer on low for 15 minutes.

Prepare Buns: Lightly toast hamburger buns if desired for added texture.
Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon a generous portion of pulled pork onto each bun bottom.
Add Toppings: Add coleslaw or pickles (if desired) and top with the bun.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and savor the smoky, tender BBQ pork sandwich!

Notes

Pork loin is leaner; add broth if it dries out during cooking.
Shred pork while warm for easier handling; adjust sauce to taste.

Toast buns lightly to enhance texture without burning.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or low-sugar diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 581Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 136mgSodium 1154mgCarbohydrates 49gFiber 2gSugar 23gProtein 51g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Pork Loin (3 lbs): Boneless, trimmed of excess fat for tenderness.

BBQ Sauce (1.5 cups): Smoky and tangy, store-bought or homemade.
Chicken Broth (1 cup): Low-sodium keeps pork moist; enhances flavor.
Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and a sticky glaze.

Apple Cider Vinegar (¼ cup): Brings tangy brightness to balance richness.
Garlic (3 cloves): Minced for aromatic warmth.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Infuses smoky flavor; regular paprika is milder.

Salt and Pepper (1 tsp each): Seasons the pork; adjust after cooking.
Hamburger Buns (8): Soft and sturdy to hold the pulled pork.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for searing, adding depth.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Swap: Use pork shoulder or butt for a fattier option.
Sauce Variations: Try a spicy or honey BBQ sauce for a twist.
Sweetener Swap: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Vinegar Options: Substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice.
Broth Swap: Use beef broth or water with extra seasoning.
Spice It Up: Add cayenne or chili powder for heat.

Bun Alternatives: Swap with slider buns or lettuce wraps.
Low-Sugar: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce or reduce brown sugar.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat with broth.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding sauce to maintain moisture.