Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe Slow Cooker: Tender, Mouthwatering Comfort Food

Ultimate Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

Looking for the perfect bbq pulled pork recipe slow cooker method that delivers tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort? This slow cooker pulled pork recipe transforms an affordable cut of meat into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or feeding a crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe

There’s something magical about coming home to the rich, smoky aroma of BBQ pulled pork that’s been simmering all day in the slow cooker. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Set it and forget it – Your crockpot does all the work
• Budget-friendly – Pork shoulder is an economical cut
• Crowd-pleaser – Even picky eaters love this tender, flavorful pork
• Versatile leftovers – Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, nachos and more

Ingredients for Perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

• 4 pounds pork shoulder roast (also called pork butt or Boston butt)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 hamburger buns, for serving
• Coleslaw, for serving (optional)
• Pickles, for serving (optional)

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart slow cooker (or larger)
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat shredding claws or two forks

How to Make BBQ Pulled Pork in a Slow Cooker

1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving some for flavor. Cut the meat into 3-4 inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chunks with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping the bottom to release all the flavorful browned bits. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and remaining salt and pepper. Pour this sauce over the pork in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and falls apart easily when pressed with a fork.
7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a large bowl. Allow to cool slightly, then use two forks or meat claws to shred the meat, removing any large pieces of fat.
8. Skim excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Transfer about 1 cup of the cooking liquid to the shredded meat and toss to combine.
9. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the remaining sauce. Keep warm until ready to serve.
10. Toast hamburger buns if desired. Pile pulled pork onto buns and top with additional BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and pickles if using.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

• Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (also called Boston butt) is ideal for pulled pork because of its marbling and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking.
• Don’t skip the sear: Browning the meat before slow cooking adds depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.
• Cook low and slow: While the high setting works in a pinch, cooking on low produces more tender results.
• Save the liquid: The cooking liquid contains tons of flavor. Don’t discard it!
• Make ahead: This pulled pork tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Pulled Pork

While classic pulled pork sandwiches are always a hit, there are many delicious ways to enjoy this versatile meat:

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The classic! Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw for that perfect creamy crunch contrast.
• Loaded Nachos: Pile pulled pork on tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, sour cream and guacamole.
• Pulled Pork Tacos: Serve in warm tortillas with fresh cilantro, diced onion, and a squeeze of lime.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with pulled pork, cheese, sour cream and green onions.
• Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese: Mix into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for an indulgent treat.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This recipe makes excellent leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week:

• Refrigerator: Store cooled pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Include some of the sauce to keep the meat moist.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Why This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe Works

The beauty of this bbq pulled pork recipe slow cooker method is that it delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The slow, gentle heat breaks down tough connective tissues in the pork shoulder, resulting in incredibly tender meat that’s infused with smoky, tangy flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this foolproof recipe is sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation!

Recipe inspiration: Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork