Pulled pork is a BBQ favorite, loved for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich, smoky flavor. However, not everyone has the time or equipment to slow smoke a pork shoulder for hours. That’s where the slow cooker comes in!
This easy, foolproof recipe delivers all the goodness of traditional barbecue with the convenience of “set it and forget it.” Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing for your next summer cookout, this slow cooker pulled pork is sure to please.
What You'll Learn in This Recipe
- How to prepare the perfect pulled pork in a slow cooker.
- Tips for seasoning pork for deep, smoky flavor.
- Ideas for serving pulled pork—whether you're making sandwiches, bowls, or tacos.
Get ready to enjoy tender pulled pork, with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
What Makes Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Amazing?
Pulled pork is a versatile dish that shines in many situations, from weeknight dinners to big gatherings. The beauty of using a slow cooker lies in how it transforms a budget-friendly pork shoulder (or pork butt) into a tender, juicy masterpiece after hours of gentle cooking. Plus, it frees up your time to focus on other tasks while the magic happens in the kitchen.
Here are some reasons why this recipe is special:
- Effortless Cooking: No need to man a smoker or monitor the oven. Just prep the meat, set the slow cooker, and wait.
- Budget-Friendly: Pork shoulder is an affordable cut of meat with high yield. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
- Flavorful & Flexible: The seasoning mix and BBQ sauce provide incredible flavor, while the meat can be served in countless ways.
Now, let's get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Before you begin, gather these ingredients. Each component adds to the incredible flavor and succulence of the pork.
For the Pork:
- Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt (3-4 lbs): These cuts are ideal for pulled pork due to their rich marbling.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp): Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic Powder (1 tbsp) and Onion Powder (1 tbsp): Infuse the meat with earthy, savory notes.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp) and Chili Powder (1 tsp): Add a subtle spice kick and vibrant flavor.
- Salt (1.5 tsp) and Black Pepper (1 tsp): Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
For Cooking:
- Apple Cider Vinegar (½ cup): Helps tenderize the meat and balances the richness with tanginess.
- Chicken Broth (½ cup) or Water: Keeps the pork moist while cooking.
- BBQ Sauce (1 cup) (store-bought or homemade): Adds that classic barbecue flavor.
Optional Toppings & Sides:
- Burger buns or slider rolls for sandwiches.
- Coleslaw for added crunch.
- Pickles or onions for garnish.
- Extra BBQ sauce for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pulled Pork
Step 1: Prep the Pork
Start by trimming excess fat off the pork shoulder, but leave some for flavor. Pat the pork dry with paper towels—it helps the seasoning stick better.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
Combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Generously rub this spice mix all over the pork, ensuring every inch is coated.
Step 3: Add to the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth (or water) around the meat—not directly on top, as this will wash away the seasonings.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat yields the most tender and juicy pork. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred the Pork
Transfer the cooked pork to a large cutting board or bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat. Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker, and return the shredded pork to the juices for extra moisture.
Step 6: Add BBQ Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of BBQ sauce directly into the shredded pork for that smoky-sweet flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Load onto a soft bun, top with coleslaw, and drizzle extra BBQ sauce.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: Fill tortillas with pork, add fresh salsa, and finish with lime juice.
- BBQ Bowls: Serve over mashed potatoes or rice, with roasted veggies on the side.
Leftovers? No problem! Pulled pork freezes beautifully. Pack portions into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal due to its marbling, which ensures tender meat.
- Don’t Rush It: Cooking on low heat for 8-10 hours yields the best texture.
- Adjust to Taste: Experiment with spice levels and BBQ sauces to suit your preferences.
- Degrease the Liquids: After cooking, skim off excess fat from the juices to avoid oily results.
Why You'll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This slow cooker pulled pork recipe combines simplicity with richness, making it a go-to for busy families or barbecue lovers alike. Plus, it allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort and cost-efficiency.
Whether you plan to use this recipe for a weeknight dinner or scale it up for a party, success is guaranteed. The best part? It smells amazing while cooking, so you’ll be counting down the hours until it’s ready!
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker pulled pork is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s foolproof, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile—perfect for everything from busy weekday dinners to weekend cookouts. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
Excited to try this recipe? Fire up your slow cooker, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy one of the easiest (and tastiest) BBQ treats. Don’t forget to share your results with us—we’d love to see your pulled pork creations!
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