Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup
I came up with this sandwich one evening while wondering what to do with leftover pulled pork and it's become our family's favorite indulgent treat. The way the sweet smoky pork mingles with melty cheese between perfectly toasted brioche creates pure comfort food magic. Every time I make these the kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma and everyone comes running.
Why This Sandwich Works
There's something incredible about combining tangy BBQ pulled pork with gooey melted cheese. The brioche adds just the right touch of sweetness while staying sturdy enough to hold all that goodness. I love how quickly it comes together making it perfect for those nights when we want something special but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
What You'll Need
- Artesano Brioche Bakery Bread: Those thick slices hold everything perfectly.
- Pulled Pork: Warm and saucy for the best flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: I prefer shredded it melts like a dream.
- Onion Straws: These add the most wonderful crunch.
- Mayonnaise: The secret to that golden crust.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to warm up our pork.
- Garlic: Fresh minced adds such lovely flavor.
Let's Make Something Amazing
- Prepare the Pulled Pork
- Get your pan nice and warm add that fragrant garlic then heat your pork with BBQ sauce until it's perfect.
- Assemble the Sandwich
- Layer everything between your bread slices remember that mayo goes on the outside.
- Cook the Sandwich
- Keep your heat medium low and let those sandwiches get golden and melty.
- Serve Immediately
- Cut them in half and watch those cheese pulls they're irresistible.
Perfect Pairings
We love serving these with crispy onion rings or fresh coleslaw on the side. Sometimes I'll make a light cucumber salad to balance out all that richness. Grilled corn salad in summer makes it feel like a proper barbecue feast.
My Best Sandwich Secrets
That layer of mayo on the outside is non negotiable it creates the most beautiful golden crust. I love mixing different cheeses for more complex flavor. Keep your heat gentle so everything has time to melt properly and don't overfill or they get hard to flip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside?
Mayo creates a perfectly golden-brown crust and helps the bread crisp evenly. It won't burn as easily as butter and spreads more easily on bread.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
While deli American melts best, you can try cheddar or provolone. Just remember that American cheese gives that classic melty texture.
- → How do I keep my sandwich from falling apart?
Don't overstuff the sandwich and cook on medium-low heat. This allows cheese to melt properly and hold everything together when flipping.
- → Can I use leftover pulled pork?
Leftover pulled pork works great! Just warm it with BBQ sauce before assembling the sandwich to ensure even heating.
- → Why use brioche bread specifically?
Brioche's buttery richness and soft texture make it perfect for grilling. It browns beautifully and complements the rich filling.