Introduction to Roast Pork Sandwiches
Roast pork is one of those magical meats that almost always tastes better the next day—a rare thing. Don’t tell anyone else that we told you that, though!
We know this sounds obvious, but the key to making the most of these delicious remains? Sandwiches! They’re quick, versatile, and can quickly transform yesterday’s roast into today’s masterpiece. But before you shrug the idea off, there are so many ways to make sandwiches that can elevate everyday kitchen staples.
So, let’s go. In this guide, we will look into nine ways to use leftover roast pork in sandwich form. From the classic pork and gravy roll to globally inspired flavours like Vietnamese bánh mìh and Cuban sandwich style, we’ve got your back.
1. Classic Roast Pork & Gravy Roll
Perfect for: A comforting, no-fuss meal that summons up memories of fun family dinners. What could possibly be wrong with that?
How to Make:
- Warm up the leftover roast pork gently and some pork gravy. We like to make the gravy, slice the pork, and rewarm them together in a low oven. This will help keep the meat moist.
- Toast and butter a soft white roll.
- Pile on the pork and drizzle with more of the hot gravy. Don’t go mad on the gravy, or that bun will fall apart. You can always go back for more if you like it super saucy.
- You could also serve it with crispy pork crackling on the side for extra crunch, but if you’re anything like us, there won’t be any crackling left over!
The combination of succulent pork, rich gravy, and a soft, buttery roll is pure comfort. You can make fun salads that work side by side with this sandwich, but not if you want to stick to the lighter effort that this sandwich offers. Get into it, quickly!
2. Italian Roast Pork Panini
Perfect for: A crispy, cheesy, satisfying bite.
How to Make:
- Use ciabatta or focaccia bread and brush the outside lightly with olive oil.
- Layer up the roast pork or porchetta, provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, and fresh rocket.
- Press and grill in a sandwich press or fry pan until the bread is golden and the cheese fully melts.
We know that some of you foodies might disagree with our technique or ingredients, but this sandwich is as tasty as it is attractive and is done in no time.
Keep it simple; let the ingredients do the talking. That is the best way.
3. Vietnamese Roast Pork Bánh Mì
Perfect for: A fresh, crunchy, and flavourful twist that packs a lot of action into one sandwich.
How to Make:
- Lightly toast a baguette and spread it with some sriracha mayo.
- Layer up your thinly sliced roast pork, pickled carrots & daikon, cucumber, and fresh coriander.
- If you’re a fan of heat, chuck in some sliced bird’s eye chilies for extra heat. Or you could add these to your quick pickle for a slightly less assertive burn.
The mix of spicy, sweet, sour, and savoury flavours in this bad boy makes this an unforgettable sandwich that’s light yet packed full of punch.
4. Roast Pork Breakfast Sandwich
Perfect for: A hearty morning meal with all the naughtiness of a drive-thru dirty muffin but much more satisfying.
How to Make:
- Toast an English muffin or brioche bun.
- Fry an egg until it is still slightly runny.
- Reheat the leftover roast pork in a frying pan.
- You want to layer the roast pork with cheddar cheese and the fried egg.
- Add a dollop of hot sauce or Dijon mustard for a kick. Ketchup is also not a bad choice if you want classic takeaway vibes.
This breakfast sandwich is a great way to start your day, offering protein, flavour, and that indulgent runny egg goodness synonymous with lazy weekend breakfasts and grab-n-go deliciousness in equal measure.
5. Cuban-Style Roast Pork Sandwich
Perfect for: A crispy, tangy, and savoury treat.
How to Make:
- Use Cuban bread or a soft baguette.
- Layer roast pork marinated and cooked in Cuba’s renowned mojo sauce with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard.
- Butter the outside of the sandwich and press or grill until your sandwich is golden brown and crispy.
Balance is key here, as a lot is going on! You’ve got salty, you’ve got tangy, you’ve got crunchy, and you have meaty. You might want to schedule in a nap after this one!
6. Roast Pork Torta (Mexican-Style Sandwich)
Perfect for: This is a punchy, flavourful, and very filling sandwich. Another contender in the ‘schedule a nap’ category!
How to Make:
- Use a bolillo roll or baguette.
- Spread refried beans on one side and mashed avocado on the other. You can make your own refried beans, which are very easy and quick, or use a tin for ease if you have them available.
- Layer roast pork, pickled jalapeños, tomato slices, and crumbled queso fresco.
- Toast lightly and serve with a side of salsa.
The torta brings a Mexican twist to your leftover pork, creating a hearty, spicy, and utterly delicious sandwich.
7. Roast Pork Sliders with Apple Slaw
Perfect for: A sweet and savoury combo, these are great for parties.
How to Make:
- Use tiny brioche buns.
- Layer roast pork with a fresh slaw. Shredded apple, cabbage, onion, and carrots are a good start, tossed in a light vinaigrette that compliments the flavours but starts to break down the slaw a bit.
- Add a smear of Dijon mustard if you want more bang for your buck.
We think the contrast between the juicy pork and the crisp, tangy apple slaw makes these sliders irresistible, and the heat from the Dijon certainly kicks it up a notch. You know what would make these even better? A crisp, chilled beer.
8. Korean-Inspired Roast Pork Sandwich
Perfect for: This is a bold, umami-packed beast of a sandwich. One for the heat lovers out there.
How to Make:
- Toss some diced or shredded roast pork with some gochujang. Korean chili paste is super popular right now, and we think this recipe is a great way to get to know it if you’re new to it.
- Serve on a soft bun with kimchi and some sesame mayo to mellow the sharpness.
- Garnish with some finely sliced green onions and some lightly toasted sesame seeds. A bit of cucumber wouldn’t go amiss, too.
This sandwich takes your taste buds on quite a journey, striking that perfect balance of spice, tang, and umami richness.
9. Roast Pork & Brie Baguette
Perfect for: A rich and classic sandwich.
How to Make:
- Use a crusty baguette.
- Spread with fig jam or cranberry sauce.
- Layer roast pork, creamy Brie cheese, and fresh rocket for peppery freshness to cut through the richness.
This sandwich is a beautiful blend of sweet, salty, and creamy flavours, making it feel gourmet and indulgent yet with minimal effort. The best way to enjoy something indulgent!
Conclusion
Leftover roast pork doesn’t have to mean bland meals. These nine sandwich ideas have hopefully showcased how versatile, delicious, and easy it is to repurpose roast pork into something spectacular. Whether you’re craving something comforting, spicy, cheesy, or fresh, there’s a sandwich here to satisfy your hunger.
So, next time you have leftover roast pork, why not give the microwave a miss and give one of these creative sandwiches a shot instead. You might just make extra pork on purpose just to enjoy these delicious sandwiches again!
