Print

Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for Perfect BBQ Sandwiches

A close-up of tender, shredded Slow Cooker Pulled Pork coated in a rich, dark barbecue sauce on a white plate.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make tender, flavorful pulled pork with this simple set and forget slow cooker pork recipe. It is great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bottle (18 oz) your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Place the pork shoulder in the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  3. Pour the water or chicken broth and apple cider vinegar around the pork in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  6. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  7. Pour about 1 cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker over the shredded pork to keep it moist.
  8. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the shredded meat and toss to coat thoroughly. You can add more sauce to reach your preferred level of sauciness.
  9. Return the sauced pork to the slow cooker and set to the ‘Keep Warm’ setting until ready to serve, or proceed to meal prep.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a pork shoulder cut that has good marbling.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the shredded pork, skim any excess fat from the liquid remaining in the slow cooker, and simmer the liquid on the stovetop until it reduces slightly before mixing it back in.
  • This crockpot pulled pork freezes well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork/