Pulled pork is a classic comfort food that can be made in the oven, slow cooker, smoker, or Instant Pot, and its versatility means it works in countless dishes. From tender, melt-in-your-mouth barbecue sandwiches to creative spins like nachos and grilled cheese, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. This list brings together recipes with sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory flavors, each offering a unique twist on the beloved shredded pork. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a family dinner, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.

Oven Pulled Pork

A pulled pork sandwich with smoky flavor, topped with coleslaw, pickles, and pickled onions on a bun, served with potato chips on a white plate. Coleslaw and baked beans are in the background.
Oven Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Slow-cooked in the oven, this pulled pork becomes incredibly tender. A flavorful rub infuses the meat as it roasts. The juices keep it moist and packed with flavor. It’s a great base for sandwiches, tacos, or bowls.
Get the Recipe: Oven Pulled Pork

BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions

A stack of pulled pork grilled cheese on a plate.
BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

This sandwich pairs smoky pulled pork with gooey melted cheese. Sweet caramelized onions add depth and richness. Golden, crispy bread holds everything together. It’s a hearty comfort food with layers of flavor.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions

Pulled Pork Sliders

Three pulled pork sandwiches topped with coleslaw are arranged on a white plate, offering delicious pulled pork ideas for those craving tender meat and smoky flavor, with more sandwiches visible in the background.
Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mini buns are filled with juicy pulled pork for a bite-sized treat. A tangy sauce complements the smoky meat. They’re great for parties or game days. The small size makes them easy to enjoy without utensils.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Sliders

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

A grilled sandwich filled with smoky pulled pork is cut in half and served on a slate board with a side of French fries.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Tender pulled pork is tucked between layers of cheese and grilled until golden. The combination of crispy bread and melty cheese is irresistible. A bit of barbecue sauce adds tang and sweetness. It’s a satisfying mashup of two comfort classics.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Pickled Pineapple BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

Pickled Pineapple BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sandwich blends sweet, tangy pickled pineapple with savory pulled pork. The bright fruit cuts through the richness of the meat. A toasted bun adds texture. It’s a tropical twist on traditional barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Pineapple BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crispy tortilla chips are topped with pulled pork, cheese, and barbecue sauce. Add jalapeños, sour cream, and green onions for extra flavor. The meat’s smokiness pairs well with the crunchy chips. It’s a shareable and fun dish for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps

Two lettuce wraps filled with shredded meat and mixed slaw, placed on a plate.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Tender pulled pork is served in crisp lettuce leaves. Fresh toppings like cucumber or carrots add crunch. The contrast of textures makes it refreshing. It’s a lighter way to enjoy pulled pork without bread.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Open-faced sandwich with pulled pork and purple coleslaw on a toasted bun.
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

The Instant Pot makes tender pulled pork in a fraction of the time. The barbecue sauce infuses the meat as it cooks. Served on slider buns, they’re easy and quick to prepare. They’re perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Slow Cooker Balsamic Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Balsamic Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This recipe uses balsamic vinegar for a rich, tangy flavor. The pork cooks slowly until it falls apart easily. The sauce thickens into a delicious glaze. It’s great served over mashed potatoes or on crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Balsamic Pulled Pork

Smoked Cuban Mojo Pulled Pork

Smoked Cuban Mojo Pulled Pork. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This version is marinated in a citrusy garlic mojo sauce before smoking. The slow smoking process infuses deep, rich flavor. The result is juicy, aromatic pork. It’s delicious in sandwiches or served with rice and beans.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cuban Mojo Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

A plate of pulled pork sliders with a juicy and flavorful filling.
Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Tender pulled pork is piled onto slider rolls. A drizzle of sauce adds moisture and flavor. They’re easy to assemble for a crowd. The small size makes them perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos

Image shows a white tray filled with Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos.
Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Golden fries are loaded with pulled pork, cheese, and barbecue sauce. The combination of crisp fries and tender meat is addictive. Add toppings like jalapeños or ranch for extra flair. It’s comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos

Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet apples cook alongside the pork, adding natural sweetness. The barbecue sauce blends with the apple flavor for a unique twist. The meat stays juicy and tender. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A slow cooker filled with pulled pork topped with BBQ sauce.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

The slow cooker makes this dish nearly effortless. A seasoning blend and sauce infuse the pork as it cooks all day. The result is fork-tender meat that’s ready for any use. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A Smoky Oven-Braised Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe

A delicious showcase of Southern cooking, this pulled pork sandwich with melted cheese, pickles, and shredded veggies is served on a bun with brown paper—perfect alongside a glass of beer and a yellow drink in the background.
A Smoky Oven-Braised Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Pork is braised in the oven with smoky seasonings until it’s fall-apart tender. The braising liquid creates a rich sauce for serving. Piled high on a bun, it’s messy in the best way. The flavor is deep and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: A Smoky Oven-Braised Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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