Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

There’s a special kind of magic that happens in the kitchen without much fuss. This slow cooker pulled pork is one such treasure. It delivers incredibly moist, fall-apart tender results that taste like you spent hours slaving away.

Honestly, it’s become my go-to for busy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings. People always rave about the deep, savory flavor, and it reheats beautifully, making leftovers a dream.

Why I Love This Recipe

This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is a lifesaver!

• Incredibly easy: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
• Busy weeknight hero: Set it and forget it.
• Crowd-pleaser: Tastes amazing and impresses everyone.
• Super versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or salads.
• Ultimate comfort food: Pure, delicious goodness.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Ingredients

The beauty of this pulled pork recipe lies in its simple ingredients. They combine into a symphony of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.

• Pork Shoulder: This is the star. Its marbling makes it incredibly forgiving and guarantees tenderness.
• Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce forms the flavor base.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a welcome tang. It also helps break down the meat.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity. It caramelizes beautifully.
• Mustard & Worcestershire Sauce: These add depth and umami. They’re flavor powerhouses.
• Spices (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne): These seasonings create the delicious, savory crust. Adjust cayenne for your heat preference.
• Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and a little extra flavor. It prevents the meat from drying out.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have apple cider vinegar? White vinegar works in a pinch. Feel free to swap your favorite BBQ sauce. For a smoky kick, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you crave more heat, a pinch of chili powder does the trick. Want to infuse more flavor? Toss in a few unpeeled garlic cloves or a sliced onion with the pork. Remember, all measurements are in full in the recipe card at the end!

How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Making this pulled pork is so incredibly simple. You really just need to mix a few things together. Then, your slow cooker does most of the work for you. It’s truly a ‘set it and forget it’ kind of meal. This recipe is perfect for busy days.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

First, grab a small bowl. Combine your barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar. Add the brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t forget the cayenne pepper for that little kick. Mix it all up until it’s smooth and well combined. This flavorful sauce is the heart of our dish. It will tenderize and flavor the pork beautifully.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Next, take your pork shoulder. Place it right into the slow cooker. It’s going to look pretty big. Pour the chicken broth around the bottom of the roast. Then, pour that amazing sauce mixture all over the pork. Make sure it’s coated evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. It really is this easy to get started.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Now, cover your slow cooker. You have two options for cooking time. Cook it on the low setting for 8 to 10 hours. Or, if you’re short on time, use the high setting for 4 to 6 hours. The key is that the pork becomes fork-tender. It should easily shred with just forks. Low and slow is usually best for ultimate tenderness. But high works in a pinch!

Step 4: Shred the Pork

Once it’s done, carefully remove the pork shoulder. Use two forks to shred all the meat. It will come apart so easily! Discard any large fatty bits you find. Place the shredded pork back into the slow cooker with the juices. This helps keep it super moist. Alternatively, you can put it in a large bowl. Spoon some of that rich cooking liquid over it.

Step 5: Serve Your Delicious Pulled Pork

Finally, it’s time to serve! Warm up your hamburger buns. Pile the tender, juicy pulled pork onto the buns. You can add more BBQ sauce if you like. This slow cooker pulled pork is amazing as is. It’s ready for a delicious meal. Enjoy your fantastic creation!

How to Store Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Leftovers are a beautiful thing. Storing your delicious slow cooker pulled pork is simple. Make sure the meat has cooled slightly. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly. It should stay fresh for about three to four days. Freezing is also an option. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly stored, it will keep for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This pulled pork freezes incredibly well, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch!

Tips for Success

• Use a pork shoulder (Boston butt). It has excellent marbling.
• Don’t skip the apple cider vinegar. It adds great tang.
• Taste the sauce before cooking. Adjust seasonings as needed.
• Ensure the lid is sealed tight. This traps all the moisture.
• Allow resting time after shredding. It absorbs juices better.
• Shred with two forks for best results. Skip the knife.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Slow Cooker: Any brand will do.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the sauce.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy.
• Forks (2): Essential for shredding the pork.
• Cutting Board: A large one is helpful.
• Tongs: For moving the hot pork.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on toasted hamburger buns.
• Pair with coleslaw and potato salad.
• Enjoy with a side of sweet baked beans.
• Offer your favorite pickles and onions.
• A crisp, cold beer or iced tea is perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, is ideal for its fat content, a pork loin can work. Just be aware that pork loin is leaner. It may dry out more easily, so keep a close eye on it during cooking.

How can I make my slow cooker pulled pork spicier?

For an extra kick, increase the cayenne pepper in the sauce. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes. Another great option is to stir in a diced jalapeño along with the pork. Taste and adjust to your heat preference!

Is it better to cook pulled pork on low or high in the slow cooker?

Cooking on low for 8-10 hours generally yields the most tender, fall-apart pulled pork. It allows the connective tissues to break down slowly. Cooking on high for 4-6 hours is faster. It still produces great results, but low and slow is my top pick for ultimate melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I prepare the sauce for the slow cooker pulled pork ahead of time?

Yes, you certainly can! The sauce mixture can be made a day or two in advance. Just whisk all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This saves even more time when you’re ready to assemble the slow cooker meal.

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