If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of comfort food, look no further than Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches. This delicious dish is not just a sandwich; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture, combining the richness of smoked ham with a tangy, homemade BBQ sauce that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. Originating from the Steel City, these sandwiches have become a beloved staple, perfect for picnics, casual gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. With a few easy steps, you’ll be able to whip up a plate of these savory sandwiches that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving a satisfying meal, Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches deliver on taste and comfort.

Ingredients

• For the Smoked Ham:
  • 2 pounds smoked ham, diced or shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the BBQ Sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Assembly:
  • 8 soft sandwich rolls (preferably brioche or potato) – these types of rolls are particularly good because they balance soft texture with a sturdy structure
  • 1 cup homemade coleslaw (for topping) – this adds a crunchy, refreshing element that complements the richness of the ham
  • Pickles (optional) – add for a tangy crunch that can elevate the sandwich’s flavor profile

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors begin to meld together. The sauce should have a rich, slightly sticky consistency that clings well to the ham.
2. Cook the Ham: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced or shredded smoked ham and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it’s heated through and slightly caramelized. This step adds an additional depth of flavor to your Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches, creating a delightful contrast between the savory ham and tangy BBQ sauce.
3. Combine Ham and BBQ Sauce: Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the ham in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the ham evenly with the sauce, ensuring every piece is infused with that delicious BBQ flavor. Allow it to cook together for another 5 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Prepare the Sandwiches: While the ham is cooking, lightly toast the sandwich rolls on a grill or in the oven until golden brown. This step prevents the rolls from becoming soggy and adds a delightful crunch that enhances the overall eating experience. You can brush the rolls with a little butter before toasting for extra flavor.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon a generous portion of the BBQ ham mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with a scoop of homemade coleslaw, which should be creamy yet crisp, providing a perfect counterbalance to the richness of the BBQ ham. Add any additional toppings like pickles for extra flavor and texture.
6. Serve: Place the top half of the rolls over the fillings and serve your Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches warm. These sandwiches are perfect for enjoying with friends or family! Consider serving them alongside potato chips or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes the recipe quicker on busy nights, allowing you to focus on other elements of your meal.
• Storage: Store any leftover ham BBQ mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving again. Consider making a double batch to ensure you have plenty left for sandwiches throughout the week.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the ham; it should be heated through but not dried out. Keep an eye on the BBQ sauce to prevent burning, as sugars can caramelize quickly. Taste the sauce before combining it with the ham to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Grilling Techniques: If you prefer grilling, you can use a grill pan to toast the rolls or even grill the sandwiches wrapped in foil for a unique BBQ flavor. This method gives a smoky touch to the sandwiches that can be particularly delightful.

Variations

• Dietary Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rolls. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with a hearty pulled jackfruit or mushrooms, which can absorb flavors beautifully.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different BBQ sauce recipes by adding jalapeños for heat or honey for sweetness. You can also swap out the smoked paprika for chipotle powder to give a smoky kick that will excite your taste buds.
• Sandwich Toppings Ideas: In addition to coleslaw, consider adding sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, or even a slice of cheese for added richness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also be a bright addition.

Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

8

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

—

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A hearty and satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of comfort food, combining the richness of smoked ham with a tangy, homemade BBQ sauce.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds smoked ham, diced or shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 soft sandwich rolls (preferably brioche or potato)
• 1 cup homemade coleslaw (for topping)
• Pickles (optional)

Directions

1.

In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors begin to meld together.

2.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced or shredded smoked ham and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it’s heated through and slightly caramelized.

3.

Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the ham in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the ham evenly with the sauce. Allow it to cook together for another 5 minutes on low heat.

4.

While the ham is cooking, lightly toast the sandwich rolls on a grill or in the oven until golden brown.

5.

Spoon a generous portion of the BBQ ham mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with a scoop of homemade coleslaw.

6.

Place the top half of the rolls over the fillings and serve your Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches warm.