15 Delicious Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich Recipes

Oh, the joy of biting into a juicy, tangy Pittsburgh ham barbecue sandwich! Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening or planning a quick, flavorful meal that’ll wow your family, these 15 recipes are your ticket to sandwich heaven. From classic to creative twists, each one promises to deliver that irresistible combination of smoky, sweet, and savory. Ready to find your new favorite? Let’s dive in!

Classic Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich

Vintage flavors meet modern simplicity in this Classic Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich. Perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

– For the sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– For the sandwich:
– 1 lb thinly sliced cooked ham
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken slightly. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. Add the sliced ham to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Heat through for 5 minutes on low. Tip: Do not boil to keep the ham tender.
4. Meanwhile, spread butter on the inside of each hamburger bun. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden. Tip: Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.
5. Divide the ham mixture evenly among the toasted buns. Serve immediately.

Yummy and tangy, the sandwich boasts a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Try serving it with a side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.

Spicy Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich

Now, let’s dive into making a Spicy Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich that packs a punch with every bite. This sandwich combines smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors for a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients

– For the sauce: 1 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– For the sandwich: 1 lb smoked ham, thinly sliced, 4 soft hoagie rolls, 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: The sauce should thicken slightly but still be pourable.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced ham and cook for 2 minutes per side until slightly crispy.
4. Pour the prepared sauce over the ham in the skillet. Stir to coat evenly and cook for another 2 minutes. Tip: Ensure each slice is well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Slice the hoagie rolls open but not all the way through. Toast them lightly if desired.
6. Divide the saucy ham among the rolls, piling it high. Tip: For extra heat, drizzle with more sauce or add sliced jalapeños.
Oven-fresh or straight off the skillet, these sandwiches are a riot of textures and flavors. The soft rolls contrast beautifully with the crispy, saucy ham. Serve with a side of pickles or coleslaw to cut through the richness.

Sweet and Tangy Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich

Gather around for a sandwich that’s a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, a Pittsburgh classic that’s sure to delight. This ham barbecue sandwich is a quick, satisfying meal that brings a punch of flavor with every bite.

Ingredients

For the sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the sandwich:

• 1 lb cooked ham, thinly sliced
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. Add the sliced ham to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly, and cook for another 5 minutes until the ham is heated through.
4. While the ham heats, spread the softened butter on the inside of each hamburger bun and toast them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden. Tip: Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy.
5. Divide the ham mixture evenly among the toasted buns. Tip: For an extra kick, add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese before adding the ham.

Combining the tender, saucy ham with the crisp, buttery bun creates a delightful contrast. Serve these sandwiches with a side of pickles or coleslaw to complement the tangy sweetness.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Coleslaw

Bold flavors and simple prep define this Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Coleslaw. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

For the barbecue ham:

• 1 lb cooked ham, thinly sliced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

For the coleslaw:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.
2. Add sliced ham to the saucepan. Stir to coat evenly. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. While the ham simmers, prepare the coleslaw. In a large bowl, mix shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Toast the hamburger buns lightly for about 2 minutes in a toaster or on a grill for extra crunch.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a generous amount of barbecue ham on the bottom bun. Top with coleslaw and cover with the top bun.

Unbelievably tender ham meets crunchy coleslaw in every bite, creating a perfect balance of textures. Serve with pickles or potato chips for an extra crunch.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Pickles

Delightfully tangy and satisfying, this sandwich combines tender ham with a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, all topped with crisp pickles for a perfect crunch.

Ingredients

• For the sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
• For the sandwich:
  • 1 lb thinly sliced cooked ham
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1/2 cup dill pickle slices

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. Add the sliced ham to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 5 minutes on low heat, just until the ham is heated through. Tip: Avoid overcooking to keep the ham tender.
4. Toast the hamburger buns lightly under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, until golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Divide the saucy ham among the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Top each with pickle slices and the bun tops.
6. Serve immediately. Tip: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before simmering.

Great for a quick lunch or dinner, these sandwiches offer a juicy, flavorful bite with every mouthful. Try serving them with a side of coleslaw for a classic combo.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Cheese

Lunchtime just got a major upgrade with this Pittsburgh ham barbecue sandwich. It’s a hearty, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any day.

Ingredients

• For the sandwich:
  • 4 slices of thick-cut ham
  • 4 slices of provolone cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns
• For the barbecue sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, about 375°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5 minutes until thickened. Tip: Let it cool slightly for a thicker consistency.
4. Grill the ham slices for 2 minutes on each side until lightly charred. Tip: Avoid moving them too much to get good grill marks.
5. Brush each ham slice generously with the barbecue sauce.
6. Place a slice of provolone cheese on each ham slice. Cover the grill or skillet for 1 minute to melt the cheese.
7. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 30 seconds until lightly golden.
8. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the cheesy ham on the bottom bun. Add extra barbecue sauce if desired.

Perfectly melted cheese and smoky ham make every bite irresistible. Try serving with crispy onion rings for an extra crunch.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Jalapenos

You’ve probably heard of pulled pork, but Pittsburgh ham barbecue brings a unique twist to the table. This sandwich combines smoky, tender ham with a tangy barbecue sauce and a kick of jalapenos for a bold flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the barbecue sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the sandwich:

• 1 lb smoked ham, shredded
• 4 hamburger buns
• 2 jalapenos, sliced
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. Add the shredded ham to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for another 5 minutes on low heat to warm the ham through.
4. While the ham heats, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toast the hamburger buns cut-side down until golden, about 2 minutes. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by dividing the ham mixture among the toasted buns. Top each with sliced jalapenos. Tip: For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before slicing.

A perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a side of coleslaw to cut through the richness, or add extra jalapenos for those who love heat.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Onions

Uncommon yet utterly satisfying, this sandwich combines tender ham with a tangy barbecue sauce, all topped with caramelized onions for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• For the sandwich:
  • 1 lb thinly sliced Pittsburgh ham
  • 4 soft sandwich rolls
• For the barbecue sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the onions:
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the sliced ham to the barbecue sauce, stirring to coat. Heat through for about 3 minutes.
4. Split the sandwich rolls and toast them lightly if desired.
5. Divide the ham mixture among the rolls, topping each with a generous amount of caramelized onions.

Deliciously messy, the sandwich boasts a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Serve with extra napkins and a side of pickles for an added crunch.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Pineapple

Humble yet hearty, this Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Pineapple combines smoky flavors with a sweet twist. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• For the sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
• For the sandwich:
  • 1 lb smoked ham, thinly sliced
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 4 pineapple rings
  • 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. Add the sliced ham to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Cook for 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the ham to absorb the flavors.
4. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and toast the hamburger buns for 1-2 minutes until golden. Tip: Lightly buttering the buns before toasting adds extra flavor.
5. In the same skillet, add the pineapple rings. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until caramelized. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even caramelization.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a generous amount of sauced ham on the bottom bun. Top with a caramelized pineapple ring and the top bun.

Bursting with flavors, the sandwich offers a delightful contrast between the smoky ham and sweet pineapple. Serve it with a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with BBQ Sauce

Zesty and satisfying, this Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich is a quick fix for any meal. Perfect for gatherings or a hearty lunch, it’s all about the rich BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

• For the sandwich:
  • 2 cups pulled ham
  • 4 hamburger buns
• For the BBQ sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture constantly until it begins to simmer, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it after cooling slightly.
3. Add the pulled ham to the saucepan with the BBQ sauce. Stir well to coat the ham evenly. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes to warm through.
4. Toast the hamburger buns lightly under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden. Tip: Watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Divide the BBQ ham mixture evenly among the toasted buns. Tip: For extra flavor, add a slice of cheddar cheese before the ham.

Vibrant with a smoky sweetness, the sandwich boasts a tender texture. Serve with a side of coleslaw to cut through the richness.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Mustard

Unmistakably hearty, the Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Mustard is a no-nonsense meal that packs flavor in every bite. Perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners, it’s a straightforward dish that delivers satisfaction.

Ingredients

• For the sandwich:
  • 1 lb thinly sliced cooked ham
  • 4 soft hamburger buns
  • 1/2 cup yellow mustard
• For the barbecue sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to make the barbecue sauce.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, whisk vigorously during the last minute of cooking.
3. Add the sliced ham to the saucepan, stirring to coat evenly with the barbecue sauce. Cook for 5 minutes until the ham is heated through. Tip: Do not overcook the ham to maintain its texture.
4. Spread 2 tbsp of yellow mustard on the bottom half of each hamburger bun.
5. Divide the sauced ham evenly among the buns, placing it on top of the mustard. Tip: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mustard before spreading.
6. Cover with the top half of the buns and serve immediately.

Delightfully tangy and slightly sweet, the sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors. The soft bun contrasts nicely with the tender ham, making it a satisfying meal any time of day. Try serving it with a side of crispy fries or a simple coleslaw for a complete meal.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Honey Glaze

Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Honey Glaze. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the sandwich:
  • 1 lb thinly sliced Pittsburgh ham
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder over medium heat. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Tip: The sauce should thicken slightly.
4. Place the ham in a large bowl and pour the sauce over it, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Brush the inside of the hamburger buns with melted butter and toast in the oven for 5 minutes. Tip: Watch closely to avoid over-toasting.
6. Divide the sauced ham among the toasted buns and serve immediately.

Outstanding in flavor, this sandwich boasts a juicy texture with a crispy bun contrast. Try serving it with a side of coleslaw for an extra crunch.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Garlic Mayo

Kick off your summer cookouts with this Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich, a twist on the classic that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Garlic mayo adds a creamy, tangy finish that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

• For the barbecue sauce: 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika
• For the garlic mayo: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp lemon juice
• For the sandwich: 1 lb thinly sliced deli ham, 4 soft sandwich rolls, 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly with an immersion blender.
3. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice to make the garlic mayo. Set aside.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ham slices and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until warmed through. Tip: Avoid overcooking to keep the ham tender.
5. Butter the inside of each sandwich roll and toast lightly in the skillet or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by layering ham on the bottom half of each roll, topping with barbecue sauce, then a dollop of garlic mayo. Close with the top half of the roll. Tip: Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Layers of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors make this sandwich a standout. The garlic mayo adds a punch that cuts through the richness, perfect with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Avocado

Outrageously simple yet packed with flavor, this sandwich combines smoky ham with creamy avocado for a quick lunch win.

Ingredients

• For the sandwich:
  • 2 slices of sourdough bread
  • 1/2 cup shredded Pittsburgh ham
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
• For the barbecue sauce:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Stir until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. Tip: Simmer sauce on low for thicker consistency.
2. Butter one side of each sourdough bread slice. Tip: Use room temperature butter for even spreading.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place bread slices buttered side down.
4. Layer shredded ham and avocado on one bread slice. Drizzle with 1 tbsp barbecue sauce.
5. Top with the second bread slice, buttered side up. Press gently.
6. Cook sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Tip: Cover skillet with a lid to melt cheese faster, if adding.

Juicy ham and crisp bread contrast with the smooth avocado. Serve with extra sauce for dipping or a side of coleslaw for crunch.

Pittsburgh Ham Barbecue Sandwich with Bacon

Grab your apron for a Pittsburgh classic with a twist. This sandwich combines smoky ham, tangy barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

– For the sandwich: 8 slices of thick-cut bacon, 1 lb thinly sliced Pittsburgh ham, 4 soft hoagie rolls
– For the sauce: 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder
– For serving: 1 cup coleslaw (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lay bacon slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy. Tip: For even cooking, flip bacon halfway through.
2. While bacon cooks, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Adjust sweetness with more brown sugar if desired.
3. Add sliced ham to the sauce, stirring to coat. Heat through for 3-4 minutes. Tip: Keep heat low to prevent sauce from thickening too much.
4. Split hoagie rolls and lightly toast them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Layer the saucy ham on the bottom half of each roll. Top with 2 slices of bacon and coleslaw if using. Cover with the top half of the roll.
Pittsburgh ham barbecue sandwich with bacon offers a perfect mix of textures and flavors. Serve it with extra sauce on the side for dipping or a cold beer to complement the smokiness.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh’s ham barbecue sandwiches are a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored! This roundup offers 15 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this local favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, there’s something here for everyone. Dive in, try these recipes, and don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments or pin this article to your Pinterest board for later!