This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Just toss your pork and spices in the slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you relax!
There’s nothing like the smell of BBQ wafting through the house. I love serving it on buns with some coleslaw. It’s like a cozy party in your mouth! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the dish, giving it rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you can use pork loin, but it tends to be drier. You might also try a tougher cut like pork shank, which will soften beautifully after slow cooking.
Chicken Broth: While chicken broth adds depth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter option. If you prefer a more robust flavor, beef broth works too.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient provides tanginess. If you’re out, regular white vinegar or even lemon juice can be used, but use a little less since they are stronger.
Barbecue Sauce: I love a smoky barbecue sauce, but feel free to choose your favorite. You can also make a homemade version with ketchup, vinegar, and spices if you want to control the sweetness.
Spices: The spices are essential for flavor! Instead of smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even chili powder (but remember, chili powder is often spicier). If you want more heat, add more cayenne.
How Do I Ensure My Pulled Pork is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender pulled pork is low and slow cooking. Using a slow cooker means you won’t have to worry about the temperature; it does all the work! Make sure not to rush this stage.
- Start by rub the pork shoulder well with olive oil and spices. Don’t skip this step; it builds flavor!
- Sauteing the onions and garlic first infuses the dish with sweetness. Wait until they’re soft and aromatic.
- Mix your liquids well before pouring them over the pork. This ensures an even coating and good flavor distribution during cooking.
- Once cooked, let the pork rest briefly before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pulled Pork:
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker pulled pork takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. It’s perfect for an easy meal that you can set and forget while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
Start by rubbing the pork shoulder with olive oil. Then, season it generously all over with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and ground cumin. If you want a little kick, add the cayenne pepper too. This will give your meat tons of flavor!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step adds a lovely flavor to your pulled pork. Once done, transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned pork shoulder right on top of the onion and garlic mixture in the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth or water, apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this tasty sauce over the pork shoulder.
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let it cook! You can set it to low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Your goal is for the pork to be super tender and easy to shred with a fork.
5. Shred the Pork:
Once your pork is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork apart, discarding any big pieces of fat that you find. If you like, you can mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking juices or extra barbecue sauce to boost the flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some hamburger buns, pile on the delicious pulled pork, and if you’d like, top it off with some coleslaw for crunch. Enjoy your homemade slow cooker pulled pork!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is the best choice for pulled pork due to its marbling and fat content, you can also use pork loin or even chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary—pork loin typically cooks faster, so check for tenderness after 4-5 hours if using it.
Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet flavor. Just cut it down by half or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Alternatively, you can also use unsweetened applesauce to retain some moisture without all the sugar.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can cook the pulled pork in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), and follow the same preparation steps. Place the seasoned pork in a covered roasting pan or Dutch oven and cook for about 4-5 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. You may need to add a little more liquid to prevent it from drying out.
