Authentic Philly Roast Pork Sandwich
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.