Print

Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Close-up of shredded, saucy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork piled high on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make tender, flavorful pulled pork in your slow cooker with minimal effort. This set-and-forget recipe is perfect for BBQ sandwiches or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 cup low-sodium 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)
  • 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, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork shoulder.
  4. Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar around the pork in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meat and stir to coat completely.
  8. Cook on the KEEP WARM setting for at least 30 minutes to allow the meat to absorb the sauce.
  9. Serve hot on buns for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a pork shoulder with some marbling.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the shredded pork, set aside, and let the remaining liquid simmer on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until reduced before mixing it back in with the BBQ sauce.
  • This recipe freezes well. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months.

Nutrition

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