pulled-pork-recipe

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe

This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is the epitome of comfort food that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy moms. 

It’s a great meal for those warm summer days when you don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen standing over a hot stove.  But it’s also hearty enough to enjoy year-round. 

With just a handful of spices and some barbecue sauce, you’ll have a dish that’s guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.

This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to serve in multiple ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or prepping meals for the week, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Why Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a Winner

Pulled pork is a versatile dish that appeals to basically everyone. I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a good pulled pork sandwich?  Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. Using a slow cooker means minimal prep and maximum flavor, making it a lifesaver for busy moms.

Not only is pulled pork incredibly flavorful, but it’s also economical. A pork shoulder is a budget-friendly cut of meat that transforms into tender, juicy goodness after slow cooking. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even pizza toppings.


How To Prepare Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

1  Large Onion, finely chopped

1  Cup Barbeque Sauce

1  Tbsp Chili Powder

¼ Cup Liquid Smoke

¼ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar

1  Tbsp Onion Powder

2  Tbsp Garlic Powder

1  Tsp Mustard Powder

1  Tbsp Thyme

½ Cup Brown Sugar

1  Tbsp Paprika

1  Tbsp Black Pepper

1 Pork Shoulder ( 3 – 4 lbs )

Directions:

1. Rinse pork shoulder, and pat dry with paper towels.  

2. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Mix together all of the dry spices and rub into all sides of the pork, ensuring it’s evenly coated. 

3. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top. In a separate bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s fully covered.

4. Set your slow cooker to low and allow pork shoulder to cook for 8-10 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours, but cooking on low will give you the best results.

5. Once the pork is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices and extra barbecue sauce for added flavor.

pulled-pork

How To Serve Pulled Pork

Classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The most popular way to enjoy pulled pork is on a bun, topped with creamy coleslaw. The crunch of the coleslaw pairs perfectly with the meat.

Add Side Dishes For A Complete Meal

Pair your pulled pork with baked beans, corn on the cob, and garlic bread for a wholesome meal. 

Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork

Choose The Right Cut Of Meat

Pork shoulder (also called Boston butt) is the ideal cut for pulled pork. Its high fat content ensures the meat stays juicy and flavorful during the slow cooking process.

Don’t Rush The Process

Cooking on low heat for an extended period allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender. If you have the time, always choose the low setting on your slow cooker.

Save The Juices

The liquid left in the slow cooker is liquid gold. Use it to moisten the shredded pork or as a base for a flavorful barbecue sauce.

Storing And Reheating Pulled Pork

Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months.

To reheat, place the pork in a skillet with a bit of the reserved juices or barbecue sauce to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low until warmed through.

Ways To Use Leftover Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork Tacos

Fill soft tortillas with pulled pork, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a quick and delicious meal.

Pulled Pork Pizza

Spread barbecue sauce on a pizza crust, add shredded pulled pork, red onions, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly for a unique twist on pizza night.

Pulled Pork Nachos

This has become one of my family’s favorites!  You simply layer tortilla chips with pulled pork, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce for an irresistible appetizer or meal. 

This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to serve in multiple ways.

Its versatility ensures there’s something for everyone, whether served as sandwiches, paired with sides, or reinvented into creative leftovers.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a staple for busy families.  With its simple preparation and oh so delicious flavor, I think slow cooker pulled pork is destined to become a favorite in your household. 

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

Delicious Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef 

Skillet Ground Beef and Rice Dinner

Irresistable Twice Baked Potatoes

Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

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Show 14 Comments

14 Comments

  1. Rhonda Albom

    My husband also makes a pulled pork. Ours is similar, but it doesn’t have bbq sauce or liquid smoke. Instead, we just use the spices – same as yours plus cinnamon and cloves.

    • Never tried cinnamon and cloves. I’ll have to try that. Thank you.

  2. I love cooking with slow cooker because it’s so easy! It is like magic, makes every recipe looks super easy, even for beginners. Your pulled pork recipe sounds delicious!

    • Thank you so much. I absolutely love my slow cooker.

  3. Catherine Santiago Jose

    Such a good recipe that I need to learn. It look so delicious and I am sure my husband will become happy if he is going to have this tonight.

  4. I love meat and pork is also my top favorites beside beef and lamb. Going to try out this dish for my whole family.

  5. Yeah Lifestyle

    I love pulled pork but have always used the oven and not my slow cooker, hence so glad I found your blog as I would love to try making this recipe

  6. We just got a new slow cooker and I have been waiting to try it. I will have to do this first!

  7. couponmamacita

    This is a really good recipe. We LOVE pull pork but have always used the oven. This will be new to me but can’t wait to try.

  8. ChelseaMamma

    I love pulled pork and this recipe sounds delicious

  9. Courthey

    O my yum!!!! Pulled pork is a favorite of mine!!!! Definitely need to try your recipe

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