Ever wondered how to make the perfect pulled pork burger? Look no further! This pulled pork burger recipe combines tender pork shoulder with smoky barbecue sauce. It’s all in a soft brioche bun. This mix is a flavor explosion that will impress at any family gathering or game day.
This recipe uses 2.5 pounds of pork shoulder, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s mixed with ketchup, onion, apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices. The result is a juicy, flavorful burger that’s irresistible. Add tangy red cabbage slaw on top, and everyone will want more.
Cooking time is just 40 minutes on high pressure in the Instant Pot. This makes it both delicious and convenient. It has gotten a 5 out of 33 vote rating, proving its popularity. With 793 kcal per serving, it’s a filling meal for big appetites.
Key Takeaways
- Slow-cooked pork shoulder is the star of this recipe
- Homemade BBQ sauce adds a smoky, tangy flavor
- Brioche buns provide the perfect soft texture
- Red cabbage slaw adds a refreshing crunch
- Cook time is 40 minutes using an Instant Pot
- Recipe serves 4-6 people with 793 kcal per serving
Introduction to Pulled Pork Burgers
Pulled pork sandwiches are a dream for BBQ fans. They have tender meat between soft buns, offering a burst of flavor with each bite. The secret is slow cooking, which turns tough cuts into tender, juicy meat.
Choosing the right cut is key to making the perfect pulled pork burger. Pork shoulder or butt is best, with a good mix of fat and meat. As it cooks, the fat melts, making the meat rich and moist.
Traditional slow cooking takes hours, but modern tools like the Instant Pot can make it quick. This method is great for busy nights or surprise get-togethers.
“BBQ pork is all about patience and seasoning. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.”
A good spice rub is vital for enhancing the meat’s flavor. Mix paprika, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for a great taste. Adding beer or broth while cooking adds even more flavor.
When your pulled pork is done, put it on a toasted bun and add tangy coleslaw. This combo of flavors and textures makes the pulled pork sandwich a beloved American dish.
The Perfect Pork Cut for Your Burger
Finding the right pork cut is key for a juicy, tasty pulled pork burger. Let’s look at the best options to make your burger stand out.
Choosing Between Pork Shoulder and Butt
Pork shoulder and pork butt are great for pulled pork burgers. They both come from the pig’s shoulder. Pork butt, also known as Boston butt, is higher up and has more fat. This makes it perfect for slow cooking.
Understanding Meat-to-Fat Ratio
The ideal pulled pork has just the right mix of meat and fat. Pork shoulder has 20-30% fat. This keeps your burger moist and full of flavor during slow cooking. The fat also makes the meat tender and juicy.
Boneless vs. Bone-in Options
Both boneless and bone-in cuts work well, but boneless is easier to shred. A 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder is great for a family of six. If you choose bone-in, add extra cooking time and remember to count the bone in your servings.
| Cut | Fat Content | Cooking Time (6 lbs) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pork Shoulder | 20-30% | 6-6.5 hours | Pulled pork, roasts |
| Pork Butt | 25-35% | 6-7 hours | BBQ, slow cooking |
| Boneless Pork | Varies | 5.5-6 hours | Easy shredding |
Whatever cut you pick, slow cooking at a low temperature is crucial. This method makes the meat tender and perfect for pulled pork burgers.
Essential Ingredients for Mouthwatering Pulled Pork
Creating the perfect pulled pork burger begins with picking the right ingredients. Your spice rub sets the flavor base, and BBQ sauce adds a tangy touch. Let’s dive into the key parts that’ll make your pulled pork unforgettable.
- Dark brown sugar
- Salt
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Cayenne pepper
- Black pepper
- Lager beer
- Your favorite BBQ sauce
The spice rub mixes sweet and savory tastes, making a crust that keeps the meat moist. A can of beer adds flavor and tenderizes the meat while it cooks. Pulled pork sandwiches get a boost from a thick layer of BBQ sauce, making the flavors pop.
Tip: Aim for about ⅓ to ½-pound of pork per person when planning your portions.
Don’t overlook the coleslaw! Mix mayonnaise, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey with pre-shredded coleslaw mix for a crunchy topping.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Spice rub | Flavor base |
| Beer | Tenderizer |
| BBQ sauce | Flavor enhancer |
| Coleslaw | Crunchy contrast |
Crafting the Ultimate Spice Rub
A great pulled pork starts with a killer spice rub. Your homemade seasoning can take your pork to new heights. Let’s explore making a Memphis-style dry rub that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors
The secret to a perfect dry rub is balancing sweet and savory. Aim for sugar to be about 60% of your mix. This sweetness adds flavor and helps create a delicious bark during cooking. Mix it with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a balanced taste.
Heat Level Customization
Adjust the heat in your Memphis-style dry rub to your taste. Use less cayenne pepper if you prefer less spice. Remember, the cooking process makes flavors stronger, so start with less heat. You can always add more later!
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Rubs
While store-bought rubs are easy to find, making your own has its perks. It’s cheaper – homemade rubs can be much less expensive than store-bought ones. Plus, you control the ingredients and can adjust the flavors to your liking. Try different spice mixes to create your own Memphis-style dry rub!
“The best BBQ starts with a great rub. Make it your own, and you’ll never look back!”
Slow Cooking Techniques for Tender Pork
Getting tender, juicy pulled pork is all about the cooking method. You can use the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or dutch oven. Each method gives great results but takes different amounts of time.
The Instant Pot is great for quick meals. It cooks the pork fast, in just 40 minutes on high pressure. This is perfect for busy nights when you want a tasty pulled pork burger quickly.
The slow cooker is perfect for those who don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. Just set it in the morning, and you’ll have tender pork ready after 8 hours on low. This method lets the flavors blend slowly, making the pork rich and complex.
The dutch oven is a good choice for weekend cooking. It cooks the pork for 2-4 hours at 325°F. You can keep an eye on it while enjoying the kitchen filled with its delicious smell.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Temperature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot | 40 minutes | High pressure | Quick weeknight meals |
| Slow Cooker | 8 hours | Low | Set-and-forget convenience |
| Dutch Oven | 2-4 hours | 325°F | Weekend cooking |
No matter the method you pick, you’ll end up with tender, easy-to-shred pork. It’s perfect for your pulled pork burgers. The secret is patience and letting the meat cook slowly. This breaks down the fibers until they’re tender with a fork.
Mastering the Art of Shredding Pork
Shredding techniques are key to making the perfect pulled pork burger. After your pork is cooked until it’s fork-tender, it’s time to turn it into juicy strands. This makes the meat ready for your burgers.
Tools for Efficient Shredding
Using two forks works, but special tools can make it quicker and easier. Meat gloves or shredder claws are great for handling hot, tender smoked pork. They let you shred a lot fast while keeping your hands safe from the heat.
Timing and Temperature Considerations
For the best shredding, your pork should hit 195°F to 205°F inside. At this temperature, the meat is tender enough to shred easily. Shred it while it’s still hot to make the fibers come apart easily.
Preserving Moisture While Shredding
To keep your pulled pork moist and tasty, shred it in its cooking liquid or add some liquid back. This step is key to keeping the meat juicy. Aim for about ⅓ to ½ pound of pulled pork per person for your burgers.
- Shred in batches to maintain heat and moisture
- Use a large, shallow pan to catch juices
- Mix in small amounts of cooking liquid as you go
Mastering these shredding tips will make sure your pulled pork is just right for your burgers. It will be perfectly textured and full of flavor.
Selecting the Perfect BBQ Sauce
Choosing the right BBQ sauce can make or break your pulled pork burger. You can either pick your favorite store-bought brand or make your own. Making it yourself lets you control the flavors and adjust them to your liking.
To make a classic homemade BBQ sauce, mix 1 ¾ cups of ketchup, ½ cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 ½ tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This mix is sweet and tangy, perfect for pulled pork. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Or, you could try Carolina mustard sauce for something different. This zingy, golden sauce adds a unique flavor to your pulled pork. It’s a favorite in the region that might just become your new favorite.
- Classic BBQ: Sweet and tangy
- Carolina mustard: Zingy and golden
- Store-bought: Convenient option
Your homemade BBQ sauce can last up to a week in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, just microwave it for 2 minutes before serving to boost the flavors. Try different styles to find the one you love the most!
Assembling Your Pulled Pork Burger
Now, let’s have fun making your delicious pulled pork burger! We’ll go over the main parts that make your burger special.
Choosing the Right Bun
For a top-notch burger, pick brioche buns. They’re rich and buttery, adding a luxurious feel. Lightly toast them to get a crispy outside that holds up to the juicy pork.
Layering Ingredients for Optimal Flavor
Begin with a big pile of pulled pork on the bottom bun. This is the burger’s core. Then, add some tangy coleslaw on top. The creamy slaw and crunchy veggies go great with the tender pork.
Adding Complementary Toppings
Finish with crispy pickle slices for a fresh taste. For more spice, add sliced jalapeños or some fresh cilantro. These toppings add exciting flavors and textures to your burger.
The secret to a fantastic pulled pork burger is mixing flavors and textures well. Every bite should have tender meat, crunchy slaw, and tangy pickles in a soft bun. Enjoy making your burger!
Coleslaw: The Ultimate Pulled Pork Companion
No pulled pork burger is complete without tangy coleslaw. This red cabbage slaw recipe is perfect with your savory pulled pork. It adds a refreshing crunch and zesty flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 10 minutes.
The coleslaw mix includes a 14 oz bag of red cabbage, green cabbage, and carrots. For the dressing, mix mayo, lime juice, and a bit of sugar. This makes a creamy yet tangy slaw that goes great with your pulled pork burger. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors blend.
This coleslaw is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, serving 8 people. It’s perfect for family gatherings or small parties. Each serving has about 78 calories, so you can enjoy it without guilt. With a 4.98 out of 5 rating from 38 reviews, this tangy coleslaw recipe is a must-have for your next barbecue.