The Ultimate Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe For Melt-In-Your-Mouth Meals

Creating the perfect slow cooker BBQ pulled pork is easier than you might think! This recipe delivers incredibly tender, flavorful pork that falls apart with just a fork – perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a protein-packed main dish. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully while requiring minimal hands-on time.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich with coleslaw on a bun

Why This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Is Perfect For Any Occasion

What makes this crockpot pulled pork recipe stand out is its incredible versatility. It’s perfect for everything from casual family dinners to weekend gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming a humble pork shoulder into something extraordinary with minimal effort on your part.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Set it and forget it – Just 15 minutes of prep, then let your slow cooker work its magic
Budget-friendly – Pork shoulder is an economical cut that feeds a crowd
Crowd-pleaser – The tender, saucy result appeals to all ages
Leftovers champion – Tastes even better the next day

Ingredients For Perfect Slow Cooked Pulled Pork

4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt or Boston butt)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
8 hamburger buns, for serving
Coleslaw, for serving (optional)
Pickles, for serving (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions For Mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Pork

Prepare the pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder if desired (leaving some fat will add flavor). Cut the pork into 3-4 large chunks to promote even cooking.
Sear the meat (optional but recommended): Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork pieces on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds incredible flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Prepare the slow cooker: Place chopped onions at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Make the BBQ mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Combine everything: Place the browned pork on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ mixture over the meat, ensuring it’s well coated.
Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and falls apart easily when prodded with a fork.
Shred the pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Finish the sauce: If desired, skim excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid. For a thicker sauce, transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes to reduce.
Combine and serve: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving.
Serve: Toast hamburger buns if desired. Pile the pulled pork onto the buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if using.

Pro Tips For The Best Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt or Boston butt) is ideal for pulling because of its marbling and fat content, which keeps the meat moist during long cooking times.
Don’t skip the sear: While optional, browning the meat first adds depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Patience is key: Resist the urge to open the slow cooker during cooking as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
For smoky flavor: Add 1-2 teaspoons of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture if you want that authentic BBQ taste without a smoker.
Make ahead: This dish actually improves with time as flavors meld. Make it a day ahead for even better results.

Storing And Using Leftover Pulled Pork

One of the best things about making a big batch of slow cooker BBQ pulled pork is enjoying the leftovers! Here’s how to store it properly and some creative ways to use it up:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: The microwave works well for quick reheating. For best results, add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist.

Creative Ways To Use Leftover BBQ Pulled Pork

Stuffed baked potatoes topped with pulled pork, cheese, and green onions
BBQ pulled pork nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños
Quick quesadillas with pulled pork and pepper jack cheese
Pulled pork breakfast hash with eggs
Loaded mac and cheese with pulled pork topping

Nutrition Information

Per serving (without bun or toppings):

Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fat: 23 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 13 g

4.8/5 (42 reviews)

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Can I use a different cut of pork?

While pork shoulder (Boston butt) is ideal, pork picnic or pork loin can work in a pinch. Just note that leaner cuts like loin won’t be quite as moist or flavorful.

Do I need to add liquid to my slow cooker?

Yes! The chicken broth and other liquid ingredients in this recipe create the necessary moisture for properly cooking the pork.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This slow cooker BBQ pulled pork actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

This slow cooker BBQ pulled pork recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort food. With just a few minutes of preparation, your slow cooker transforms humble ingredients into a feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Recipe inspired by Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork from AllRecipes.