This Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork is a simple dish that boasts tender, juicy meat! Just toss pork, some spices, and BBQ sauce into your slow cooker, and let it do the work.
You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen while it cooks. I like to serve it on soft buns with extra sauce. Trust me; it’s a tasty way to please a crowd! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for pulled pork as it’s marbled with fat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use pork loin, but it may not be as juicy. Alternatively, beef chuck can also work well for a different flavor.
Onion: A large onion adds a lot of flavor. If you’re not an onion fan, try using shallots or leeks for a milder taste. You can also skip the onion entirely if you’d prefer, but you might miss out on some depth in flavor!
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce. If you want to keep it healthier, a vinegar-based sauce is a great option. Alternatively, homemade sauce allows you to control sugar and spice levels.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture. You can substitute vegetable broth or even water if you don’t have broth on hand. This will give you a gentle flavor without overpowering the pork.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine. You can even experiment with your favorite spice blends or chili seasonings to create a unique taste.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Pulled Pork?
Getting that perfect tender pulled pork is all about cooking low and slow. Using a crock pot is fantastic because it allows the meat to break down and absorb flavors without much work on your end.
- Start with seasoning the pork generously. Create a nice crust to help keep moisture in.
- Layer onions and garlic in the pot to infuse their flavors into the pork as it cooks.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours. This slower process helps melt the fat and connective tissues, resulting in tender meat.
- When shredding, use two forks to pull apart the meat; it should come apart easily if cooked correctly.
- Mix the shredded pork back in with the juices after cooking to really enhance the flavor.
Don’t rush this process; patience is key for that juicy, tender result! Enjoy your pulled pork with all the good flavors you’ve crafted! 😊
Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork – Tender & Juicy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
- Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls, for serving
- Extra BBQ sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 8 to 10 hours of slow cooking on low or 4 to 6 hours on high. That means you can start it in the morning and have a delicious meal ready for dinner. It’s a great, hassle-free way to enjoy tender pulled pork!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a tasty dry rub. This will add lots of flavor to the pork!
2. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork shoulder. Make sure it’s well coated for the best flavor.
3. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot, then add the minced garlic on top. This will infuse the meat with extra flavor while cooking.
4. Add the Pork:
Put the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic in the crock pot.
5. Add Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth (or water) and barbecue sauce over the pork, making sure it’s well-covered. This not only adds flavor but helps keep the pork moist as it cooks.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is so tender it easily pulls apart with a fork.
7. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and transfer it to a large bowl or cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
8. Mix Back in the Juices:
Return the shredded pork to the crock pot and stir it into the juices and sauce. If you want an extra tangy flavor, you can add the tablespoon of apple cider vinegar at this point and mix well.
9. Absorb the Flavors:
Let the pork cook on low for another 15 to 30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors, making sure it’s served piping hot.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pulled pork warm on hamburger buns or rolls, with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your juicy, tender crock pot pulled pork!
Bon appétit! 😊
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork
Can I Use Frozen Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method—placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for a few hours. Cooking from frozen may require additional time in the crock pot, so keep an eye on tenderness.
Can I Substitute Other Meats?
Definitely! While pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork, you can also use beef chuck or even chicken thighs. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary—chicken will cook faster, usually around 4-6 hours on low.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Crock Pot?
Absolutely! Feel free to add additional flavorings like chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even a splash of beer for a unique twist. Just be careful not to overwhelm the dish—keep the main focus on the pork and sauce!