Keto Pulled Pork

By Chloe Ramirez

Published on

Keto Pulled Pork

There’s a special kind of comfort in a slow cooker meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas. This Keto Pulled Pork delivers all that and more — incredibly moist, tender, and packed with rich smoky flavor. The savory blend of spices combined with a tangy, sugar-free BBQ sauce creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

This easy keto pulled pork is a weeknight lifesaver. It makes fantastic leftovers and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or busy dinners. Everyone who’s tried it always raves about its depth of flavor and satisfying texture.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Keto Pulled Pork is a true kitchen hero, and here’s why:

  • Super Simple Prep: It takes just minutes to get this flavorful low-carb pulled pork started.
  • Effortless Flavor: The slow cooker takes care of everything, giving you rich, bold flavor with minimal work.
  • Highly Versatile: Perfect for easy lunches, comforting dinners, or meal prep throughout the week.
  • Pure Comfort: A hearty, filling meal that tastes like a cozy hug in every bite.

Keto Pulled Pork Ingredients

The magic of this Keto Pulled Pork lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients that create layers of smoky, savory, and slightly tangy flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Boneless Pork Shoulder: The star of the show — marbled and juicy for perfect tenderness.
  • Olive Oil: Helps spices stick and aids in browning for added flavor.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and beautiful color.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: A classic seasoning blend that enhances the pork’s natural flavor.
  • Low-Carb BBQ Sauce: The key flavor component — tangy, slightly sweet, and keto-friendly.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
  • Chicken Broth: Keeps everything juicy and tender during slow cooking.

Substitutions and Tips

No apple cider vinegar? White vinegar or a splash of lemon juice works too. If you can’t find sugar-free BBQ sauce, make your own or choose a trusted low-carb brand. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub. Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below — and this recipe is very forgiving, so don’t stress about tweaks!

How to Make Keto Pulled Pork

Keto Pulled Pork

Making this dish couldn’t be easier. Your slow cooker does nearly all the work.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better. Rub it all over with olive oil to create a flavorful base.

Step 2: Season Generously

In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire pork shoulder. This simple seasoning blend infuses deep, savory flavor.

Step 3: Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker. Don’t worry if it seems big — it will shrink as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Sauce Mixture

Whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth in a bowl. Pour the mixture over the pork. You’ll instantly notice the delicious aroma beginning to develop.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easy to shred. This slow-cooking process ensures maximum juiciness.

Step 6: Shred the Pork

Transfer the pork to a cutting board and shred it with two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat. The meat should pull apart effortlessly.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the sauce until well-coated. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Store Keto Pulled Pork

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days — perfect for meal prepping. To freeze, cool the pork completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Use a 4–5 lb boneless pork shoulder for best results.
  • Confirm your BBQ sauce is sugar-free to keep it keto-friendly.
  • Always pat the pork dry before seasoning for better sear and adhesion.
  • Taste and adjust the sauce before serving.
  • Let the pork rest briefly after shredding for juicier results.
  • Shred while warm; it’s easier and yields a better texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Slow Cooker: Any model will work well for this recipe.
  • Cutting Board: Large enough for shredding the pork easily.
  • Two Forks: Essential for pulling the meat apart.
  • Small Bowls: Perfect for preparing spice blends and sauces.
  • Paper Towels: For drying the pork before seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the pulled pork in crisp lettuce wraps for a light keto meal.
  • Layer over cauliflower rice for a hearty dinner.
  • Build sandwiches with low-carb buns or tortillas.
  • Pair with coleslaw or roasted green beans.
  • Enjoy with a cold glass of sugar-free iced tea.
Keto Pulled Pork

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Keto Pulled Pork ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Cook it a day or two before serving, refrigerate it in an airtight container, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

How do I trim excess fat from the pork?

After shredding, simply remove any visible fatty pieces with a fork. You can also skim off the fat from the cooking juices before returning the shredded meat to the slow cooker.

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Pork shoulder (or butt) yields the juiciest results, but pork loin can be used for a leaner version. You’ll need to adjust cooking time and possibly add more liquid to keep it moist.

How can I ensure my BBQ sauce is keto-friendly?

Check labels carefully — look for “sugar-free” or “keto” on the bottle and choose one with minimal carbs per serving. Many brands now offer excellent low-carb options perfect for this recipe.

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Keto Pulled Pork

Keto Pulled Pork

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  • Author: Chloe Ramirez
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3-8 hours (depending on setting)
  • Total Time: 3.25 – 8.25 hours
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

A simple and delicious recipe for Keto Pulled Pork cooked in a slow cooker, perfect for low-carb meals.


Ingredients

  • 45 lb boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup low-carb BBQ sauce (sugar-free)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth


Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the pork.
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture generously over all sides of the pork shoulder.
  3. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-carb BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the pork.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or in a shallow dish.
  7. Using two forks, shred the pork, discarding any excess fat.
  8. Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
  9. Serve hot as desired (e.g., in lettuce wraps, over cauliflower rice, or in keto buns).

Notes

  • Ensure your BBQ sauce is sugar-free and low in carbohydrates to maintain the keto aspect of the recipe.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker and the size of the pork shoulder.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Categorized in:

Dinners
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