Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is super easy and oh-so-delicious! Just throw pork and some tasty spices in your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. You’ll have tender, flavorful meat without any fuss!
My favorite part? It practically makes itself! I love to serve it on buns with coleslaw for a fun, messy meal. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is essential for pulled pork. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use pork loin, but it won’t be as juicy. I’ve found using pork shoulder gives a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a deep flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, though it’s not as smoky. For a bit of zest, cayenne adds nice heat; feel free to skip it if you prefer milder flavors.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce, or make your own! You can also swap it for other sauces like mustard-based or vinegar-based ones for a different twist. My go-to is a tangy sauce that complements the sweetness of the pork.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is key for tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice could work as substitutes. I love how the vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you’re not an onion fan, you can leave it out or try using shallots for a milder taste.
How Can I Ensure My Pulled Pork is Tender and Shreddable?
The cooking time is crucial for tender pulled pork. Using a slow cooker lets the meat cook low and slow, which makes it juicy and easy to shred. The key is to trust your slow cooker!
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours for the best results. If you’re in a rush, 4-6 hours on high works too, but I recommend the low setting.
- Keep the slow cooker covered! Opening it will release steam and extend cooking time.
- Use two forks for shredding; it’s the easiest method I’ve found. Shred it while warm for the best texture.
Remember, if it doesn’t pull apart easily, it probably needs more cooking time. Just give it a little longer until it’s perfect!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4-6 burger buns (for serving)
Optional Garnishes:
- Coleslaw
- Pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 20 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 hours to cook on low or 4-6 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious pulled pork dinner ready by evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by patting the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better! Rub the olive oil over the entire pork piece. Then, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it) all over the pork, pressing the spices into the meat so they stick well.
2. Sear the Pork (Optional):
If you have time, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until it gets a nice golden brown color—this will take about 4-5 minutes per side. Searing adds great flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
3. Assemble in Slow Cooker:
Now it’s time to set up the slow cooker! Place the sliced onions on the bottom. Next, place the seasoned pork shoulder right on top of those onions. In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Once combined, pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose the low setting for 8-10 hours or the high setting for 4-6 hours. The pork is ready when it’s super tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Pork:
When it’s done cooking, carefully take the pork out of the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. If there’s any extra fat in the liquid left in the slow cooker, you can skim that off if you’d like.
6. Combine and Serve:
Toss the shredded pork back in the slow cooker with the juices to keep it nice and moist. Now you can serve the pulled pork on burger buns and add extra barbecue sauce. Feel free to top with coleslaw and pickles for that extra crunch! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of pork, like pork loin or tenderloin, but keep in mind that they may not be as flavorful and tender as pork shoulder. If using a leaner cut, reduce the cooking time to prevent dryness. Remember, the key to great pulled pork is the fat content that comes from the shoulder!
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook the pulled pork in the oven instead. Simply preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), place the pork shoulder in a covered roasting pan with the other ingredients, and cook for about 3-4 hours, or until it’s fork-tender. Just make sure to occasionally check for moisture and add a bit of water or broth if needed.
How to Store Leftover Pulled Pork
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the pork completely before freezing and separate it into smaller portions for easier thawing!
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily modify the heat level! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the cayenne pepper altogether. Alternatively, if you love spice, you can add more cayenne or incorporate spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
