This Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork recipe gives you super tender meat that’s bursting with flavor. Just toss a few ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do all the work!
You’ll love how simple and delicious this dish is. Family and friends always rave about it, and I secretly enjoy the leftovers for days. Who doesn’t love a good pulled pork sandwich? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is great for slow cooking because of its fat content, keeping it juicy and tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a pork butt works just as well. You could also use a pork loin, but it may dry out more easily.
Onion: Sliced onions add sweetness and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them, but they really enhance the taste. Yellow onions are best, but you can use red onions too for a slightly different flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free sauce. For a twist, a spicy or vinegar-based sauce can give it a nice kick!
Spices: The spice mix is crucial for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you can also use chili powder for a little more heat. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
How Do I Get the Pork Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the pork may seem tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these tips. After slow cooking the pork, it should easily fall apart. Here’s how:
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes outside the crock pot to cool slightly.
- Using two forks, grab and pull at the meat; it should separate with little effort.
- Remove any large chunks of fat you find while shredding.
- Sauce it well with the remaining liquid in the crock pot for maximum flavor!
Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe for Tender, Flavorful Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce and Seasoning:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus cooking time of 8 to 10 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high in your crock pot. Set it up in the morning, and you’ll have a scrumptious dinner ready when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice blend gives your pork amazing flavor!
2. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork shoulder. Make sure every side is well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Layer in the Crock Pot:
Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your crock pot. This creates a flavorful base for your pork to cook on!
4. Add the Pork:
Put the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic in the crock pot.
5. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Pour the chicken broth (or water) and apple cider vinegar around the pork. This will help keep the meat moist during cooking.
6. Cook the Pork:
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–5 hours. The pork is done when it’s very tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
7. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, remove the pork from the crock pot and place it on a large platter or cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat finely. It should fall apart easily!
8. Mix with the Sauce:
Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the crock pot, then stir in the barbecue sauce to combine. This makes the pulled pork incredibly flavorful!
9. Combine and Let Soak:
Return the shredded pork to the crock pot and mix it well with the sauce. Let it cook on low for another 15–30 minutes to soak in all that delicious flavor.
10. Serve:
Serve hot on hamburger buns with coleslaw on top, if desired. Enjoy your tender, flavorful crock pot pulled pork sandwiches!
Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Pork Shoulder?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this by placing the pork in the refrigerator overnight or by using the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spice rub and season the pork the night before. Just store it in the fridge and transfer it to the crock pot in the morning. The pork will be flavorful and ready to cook when you need it!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Pulled Pork?
Pulled pork is fantastic served in sandwiches, but you can also serve it alongside coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal. Try it on tacos or nachos for a fun twist!
