Mouthwatering Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Making bbq in crock pot is one of the easiest ways to achieve tender, flavorful pulled pork that falls apart with just a fork. This recipe transforms an affordable cut of meat into a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or game day celebrations!

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

This slow cooker BBQ pulled pork recipe features tender Boston butt pork shoulder that’s slow-cooked to perfection and smothered in your favorite barbecue sauce. With just 10 minutes of prep time, your crock pot does all the work, resulting in mouthwatering meat that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served over rice.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot BBQ Recipe

Hands-off cooking – Set it and forget it!
Budget-friendly – Transforms an inexpensive cut of meat into something amazing
Versatile – Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or served over rice
Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves pulled pork BBQ
Makes great leftovers – Tastes even better the next day

Ingredients for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

1 (3 pound) boneless pork shoulder (Boston Butt) roast
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

5-6 quart slow cooker/crock pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Two forks for shredding

How to Make Perfect BBQ in Crock Pot

Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the pork, making sure to coat all sides.
Season the meat generously with salt and pepper. If using, sprinkle with garlic powder and onion powder.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The pork is done when it easily shreds with a fork.
Once the pork is tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Pour out all but about 1/4 cup of the liquid from the slow cooker.
Using two forks, shred the pork, removing any large pieces of fat.
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Add BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and brown sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Serve warm on buns for sandwiches, in tacos, or over rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker BBQ

Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder/Boston butt is ideal for slow cooking because of its fat content, which keeps the meat juicy.
Don’t rush it: Low and slow is the key to tender pulled pork.
Customize your sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own.
Add some heat: For spicy BBQ, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for that authentic BBQ flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your Crock Pot BBQ

This versatile pulled pork BBQ can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways:

Classic BBQ Sandwiches: Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw on top
BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream
BBQ Stuffed Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with pulled pork, cheese, and green onions
BBQ Pulled Pork Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with pulled pork and cheese
BBQ Pulled Pork Bowls: Serve over rice with corn, black beans, and avocado

Storage and Reheating

Your slow cooker BBQ pulled pork will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave, on the stovetop with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to prevent drying out, or in a 325°F oven covered with foil.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (approximately 4-5 oz):

269 calories
12g carbohydrates
17g protein
16g fat
6g saturated fat
67mg cholesterol
402mg sodium
8g sugar

FAQs About Making BBQ in Crock Pot

Can I use a different cut of meat?
While pork shoulder (Boston butt) is ideal, you can also use pork loin, though it may be slightly less juicy. Beef chuck roast is another great option for slow cooker BBQ.

Do I need to brown the meat first?
No, it’s not necessary for this recipe, but browning can add extra flavor if you have time.

Can I cook it longer than 10 hours?
Yes, pork shoulder is very forgiving and can handle extended cooking times on LOW.

What if my BBQ is too watery?
Remove the lid and cook on HIGH for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid, or thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).

Making bbq in crock pot is truly one of the most rewarding and simple cooking methods that delivers incredible results every time. Try this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

Recipe adapted from Easy Slow Cooker BBQ