Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or serving as a main dish. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you’ll have delicious pulled pork ready with minimal effort.
Ingredients (Serves 8-10):
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt), boneless or bone-in
- 1 large onion, sliced (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the pork:
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some for flavor and moisture.
2. Make the spice rub:
- In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, coating it evenly.
3. Set up the slow cooker:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker (if using), then add the pork shoulder on top. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the pork.
4. Add the liquids:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and barbecue sauce. Pour the mixture over the pork.
5. Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily falls apart with a fork.
6. Shred the pork:
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat. Discard any large pieces of fat.
7. Sauce the pork (optional):
- Strain the cooking liquid and skim off excess fat. Mix some of the liquid into the shredded pork for extra flavor and moisture. Add more barbecue sauce if desired.
8. Serve:
- Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns for sandwiches, in tacos, over rice, or with coleslaw.
Tips:
- Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for pulled pork due to its marbling and flavor.
- Make it ahead: Pulled pork tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Crispy option: If you like crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Variations:
1. Sweet & Spicy Pulled Pork
- Add 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup to the sauce mixture.
- Increase cayenne pepper or add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha for heat.
2. Mexican Pulled Pork (Carnitas Style)
- Replace the barbecue sauce with the juice of 2 oranges and 1 lime.
- Add 1 teaspoon oregano and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the spice rub.
- Serve in tacos with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and salsa.
3. Hawaiian Pulled Pork
- Add 1/2 cup pineapple juice to the cooking liquid.
- Serve on buns with slices of grilled pineapple and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce.
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is versatile, flavorful, and so easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or game day celebrations! 🐖🍴
