Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe: The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a hands-off, incredibly tender, and flavorful pulled pork recipe, this slow cooker BBQ pulled pork is the perfect solution. It’s packed with smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it on a sandwich, over a salad, or as a main dish with your favorite sides, this recipe delivers consistent, juicy, and fork-tender results every time. Plus, it’s effortless to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and no complicated techniques.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder or pork butt
• BBQ sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Yellow mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chicken or beef broth
• Buns (optional, for serving)
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pork – Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some for added flavor. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Meat – In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning mix generously over the pork, ensuring all sides are coated.
3. Assemble the Slow Cooker – Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Pour in apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and broth around the meat.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection – Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
5. Shred the Pork – Once fully cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat.
6. Mix with Sauce – Discard excess liquid from the slow cooker, reserving about a cup of the juices. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard, and mix well.
7. Final Simmer – Let the shredded pork cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy – Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw or as a main dish with your favorite sides.

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning blend for extra heat.
• Smokier Flavor – Use liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a deeper BBQ taste.
• Keto-Friendly – Skip the brown sugar and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
• Tangy Twist – Increase the apple cider vinegar for a more pronounced tangy flavor.
• Different Meat Cuts – Try using beef chuck roast instead of pork for a unique twist.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
• Total Time: 8-10 hours
• Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pulled pork in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, in the microwave in short bursts, or in a slow cooker on low until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent dry pulled pork?

Ensure you use a well-marbled cut like pork shoulder, cook on low heat, and mix in reserved cooking liquid when shredding.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes with a natural release for tender pulled pork.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make a homemade version with ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices.

Can I cook it overnight?

Absolutely! Set the slow cooker on low before bed, and wake up to perfectly cooked pulled pork.

What’s the best way to serve pulled pork?

Serve on buns with coleslaw, in tacos, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Do I have to sear the pork before slow cooking?

No, but searing adds extra depth of flavor if you have time.

Can I use a leaner cut like pork loin?

Pork loin is too lean and may turn out dry. Stick with pork shoulder or pork butt for the best results.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the shredded pork cook uncovered for a bit, or mix in a cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce.

What sides go well with pulled pork?

Classic choices include coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, mac and cheese, or roasted vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Ensure your slow cooker has enough space, and extend the cooking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

This easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. With tender, juicy meat and a flavorful BBQ sauce, it’s ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Try this foolproof recipe today and savor the rich, smoky, and savory flavors!

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