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While Philly is best known for its cheesesteaks, locals will tell you the true hidden gem is the roast pork sandwich. Tender slow-roasted pork, garlicky broccoli rabe, and melty provolone come together on a crusty roll to create one of the most iconic sandwiches in Philadelphia.

Ingredients (Servings: 4)

• 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional, can sub more broth)
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe (rapini), trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing broccoli rabe)
• 4 crusty Italian rolls
• 8 slices sharp provolone cheese

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Season the pork:
Rub pork shoulder with garlic, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

2️⃣ Roast the pork:
Place pork in a roasting pan with chicken broth and white wine. Cover tightly with foil and roast at 325°F for 3–4 hours until tender and easily shredded.

3️⃣ Prepare the broccoli rabe:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch broccoli rabe for 1–2 minutes, then drain. In a skillet, sauté with olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes until tender.

4️⃣ Shred the pork:
Remove pork from the oven, shred with forks, and return to pan juices to stay moist.

5️⃣ Assemble the sandwiches:
Split rolls, layer with pork and juices, top with sautéed broccoli rabe, and finish with provolone slices. Serve hot.

📦 Amazon Must-Haves to help you create the best Philly Roast Pork Sandwich

• 🍖 Roasting Pan – Perfect for slow-cooking pork shoulder.
• 🔪 Carving Fork – Helps shred tender pork with ease.
• 🥦 Broccoli Rabe – Bitter greens that balance the richness of the pork.
• 🧀 Provolone Cheese – Sharp and melty, the classic topping.
• 🥖 Italian Hoagie Rolls – Crusty rolls to hold up to the juicy pork.

💡 Helpful Tip: If broccoli rabe is too bitter for your taste, you can substitute sautéed spinach or roasted long hot peppers for a more mild variation.