If you’ve ever craved a plate of true Southern comfort, look no further than the Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides. This dish is all about fall-apart tender pork shoulder draped in a tangy, peppery Alabama white sauce with a splash of classic red BBQ sauce for good measure. Every bite is perfectly balanced by homespun sides—smoky baked beans, slow-cooked collard greens, and crisp pickle spears—that transform this meal into a feast you’ll want to share with friends and family. It’s a celebration of smoky, creamy, tangy, and savory flavors on one unforgettable plate.

Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long grocery list to pull off the Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides, just a few thoughtfully selected ingredients that each play a starring role. These humble staples take on new life together, creating layers of flavor and texture you’ll remember long after the last bite.

Pork Shoulder (2–3 lbs): This cut, sometimes called Boston butt, gets unbelievably juicy and tender when slow-cooked—perfect for pulling apart.
Paprika (1 tbsp): Adds warm color and subtle smokiness, making the bark on your pork irresistible.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Brings a gentle, savory depth to every bite of pork.
Onion Powder (1 tsp): For mellow, allium sweetness in your dry rub.
Salt (1 tsp): Essential for pulling out the pork’s natural flavor and seasoning everything evenly.
Black Pepper (1/2 tsp + 1 tsp): A bit for the pork, a bit for the white sauce—it adds a bold kick to both.
Apple Cider Vinegar (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): Tangy and bright, this pantry favorite tenderizes pork and adds zip to the sauce.
Water (1/4 cup, optional): Keeps the pork extra juicy during long, slow cooking.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): This is the creamy base for the iconic Alabama white sauce—don’t skimp here!
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Freshens up the sauce with a pop of citrus.
Horseradish (1 tbsp): Brings gentle heat and unmistakable zing to the sauce.
Salt (1/2 tsp, for sauce): For balance and that perfect savory finish.
Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp, for sauce): A second appearance, tying together the sauce and pork.
Onion Powder (1/2 tsp, for sauce): Adds background flavor, making the sauce irresistibly good.
Cayenne Pepper (pinch): A spark of heat in the sauce, just enough to make your tastebuds dance.
Baked Beans (2 cups): Choose canned or homemade, but always simmer with smoky bacon and plenty of brown sugar for true BBQ authenticity.
Collard Greens (2 cups, cooked): Best simmered low and slow with smoke-kissed ham hock or bacon.
Pickle Spears (chilled): These add a refreshing crunch, cutting through all the richness on your plate.
Classic BBQ Red Sauce (optional): For the pitmaster who believes there’s no such thing as too much sauce!

How to Make Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides

Step 1: Season and Slow Cook the Pork

Start by patting your pork shoulder dry with paper towels, then work that paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into every nook and cranny. Place the pork in your slow cooker, pour over the apple cider vinegar (add water if it looks a bit dry), and set to LOW. Let it cook for a full eight hours, until it’s tantalizingly tender and easy to shred with two forks. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat practically falls apart under your hands and your kitchen smells like BBQ heaven.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Alabama White Sauce

While your pork is working its magic, grab a medium bowl and whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then pop it in the fridge—chilling melds the flavors and thickens it just right.

Step 3: Prepare the Classic Sides

Baked beans and collard greens are must-haves for any Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides. For truly Southern baked beans, simmer them gently with brown sugar and chopped bacon until bubbly and glossy. Collard greens transform into something magical when cooked slowly with smoked ham hock or bacon, just a splash of broth, and a little seasoning for hours, until they’re meltingly tender.

Step 4: Assemble Your Plate

When it’s go time, use forks to shred the hot pork and pile it generously onto each plate. Spoon a hearty drizzle (or as much as you dare!) of Alabama white sauce over the pork, then finish with a touch of classic red BBQ sauce if you wish. Spoon up baked beans and collard greens on the side, then crown the plate with a couple of chilled pickle spears. There’s truly no wrong way to plate this, so make it your own signature style!

How to Serve Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides

Garnishes

A little finishing touch goes a long way here! Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onion over your pork for a pop of color, or a grind of extra black pepper across the plate for added zip. If you love heat, thinly sliced fresh jalapeños are a Southern-approved garnish, and a few extra pickle slices never hurt anyone.

Side Dishes

The classic Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides isn’t complete without smoky baked beans, ultra-tender collard greens, and crunchy pickle spears. Want to mix it up? Add a wedge of cornbread or a scoop of creamy potato salad. Every side plays its part, from adding sweetness and smoke to balancing the bold, tangy sauces.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your barbecue platter by serving the pork in soft potato rolls for DIY sliders, plating sides in pretty ramekins, or topping the collard greens with crispy onions. For picnics or parties, arrange everything family-style on a big wooden board—let everyone build their own ideal Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pulled pork keeps remarkably well. Store it in an airtight container, with a little reserved cooking liquid to keep it juicy, in the fridge for up to four days. Sides like beans and greens can be portioned into separate containers and also refrigerated.

Freezing

If you have extras, the pulled pork freezes beautifully. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or freezer-safe tub—press out excess air, label, and freeze for up to three months. Alabama white sauce and sides are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze beans if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm pork in a covered skillet with a dash of water or reserved cooking juices, stirring occasionally until hot. Microwave side dishes in short bursts, stirring often. Alabama white sauce should be served cold or at room temperature—just whisk if it separates.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Absolutely! While pork shoulder or Boston butt delivers the juiciest results, you can try pork loin for a leaner option—just watch the cook time so it doesn’t dry out. Even beef brisket works for a beefy twist.

What is Alabama white sauce, and how is it different?

Alabama white sauce is a zesty, mayo-based barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar and horseradish. Unlike the sweet red sauces you may know, it’s creamy, tangy, and peppery, making Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides totally unique!

Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce gets even better if it chills for a few hours (or overnight). Store in a tight-sealed jar or container in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No problem—use your oven instead! Place the seasoned pork in a covered Dutch oven or roasting pan, add the vinegar and water, and bake at 300°F for 3-4 hours, or until it shreds easily.

Is this dish spicy?

This recipe has a mild kick from the cayenne and horseradish, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. Adjust the heat to your taste by adding more or less cayenne or extra hot sauce at the table!

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to add some Southern sunshine to your table, the Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides is a must-try. It’s comforting, surprisingly easy, and always a hit at gatherings big or small. Grab your slow cooker and a couple of hungry friends, and dive into a meal that’s as warm and welcoming as a summer day in Alabama!

Alabama White Sauce BBQ Pulled Pork Plate with Sides Recipe