Southern-Style Pulled Pork BBQ Recipe: Tender, Juicy Slow Cooker Perfection

Ultimate Southern Smoked Pulled Pork BBQ Recipe

This mouthwatering pulled pork BBQ recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with that perfect smoky flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that authentic barbecue experience right in your own kitchen.

Why This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Is a Game-Changer

There’s something magical about the combination of a well-seasoned pork shoulder, tangy barbecue sauce, and the low-and-slow cooking method that transforms tough meat into fork-tender perfection. This recipe captures all that magic with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients for the Perfect Pulled Pork BBQ

• 4-5 pound pork shoulder (boston butt)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably smoked)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon mustard powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 hamburger buns, for serving
• Coleslaw, for serving (optional)
• Pickles, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mouthwatering Pulled Pork

1. Prepare the pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne to create a dry rub. Massage this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring all sides are well coated.

2. Sear the meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor.

3. Prepare the slow cooker: Place diced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker.

4. Add liquids: In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Pour half of this mixture into the slow cooker.

5. Add the pork: Transfer the seared pork shoulder to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the onions. Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the meat.

6. Cook low and slow: 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.

7. Shred the meat: Once cooked, carefully transfer the pork to a large cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat, removing any large pieces of fat.

8. Strain and reduce the sauce: Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker, discarding solids if desired. Transfer liquid to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes.

9. Combine and finish: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and add the reduced sauce to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.

10. Serve: Toast hamburger buns if desired. Pile the pulled pork onto the buns, top with additional barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles if using.

Pro Tips for the Best Pulled Pork BBQ

• Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder (also called Boston butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content and connective tissue, which breaks down during slow cooking.
• Don’t skip the sear: Browning the meat before slow cooking adds a depth of flavor that makes a huge difference.
• Patience pays off: The longer and slower you cook, the more tender your pulled pork will be. Don’t rush this process!
• Save some juice: Reserve some of the cooking liquid to moisten the meat when reheating leftovers.
• Rest before shredding: Let the meat rest for 15-20 minutes before shredding for juicier results.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile pulled pork isn’t just for sandwiches! Try these delicious ways to enjoy your BBQ:

• Classic pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw
• Pulled pork tacos with pickled onions and cilantro
• Loaded pulled pork nachos
• BBQ pulled pork pizza
• Pulled pork stuffed baked potatoes
• Pulled pork quesadillas

Nutrition Information

Storage and Freezing Tips

One of the best things about this pulled pork BBQ recipe is that it makes excellent leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store cooled pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a covered dish with a splash of broth or sauce at 300°F until heated through, or gently warm in a saucepan on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pulled Pork BBQ

Can I make this pulled pork recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Cut the pork into 3-4 inch chunks, use the sauté function to sear, then pressure cook on high for 60 minutes with a 15-minute natural release.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can also make this in a Dutch oven. Follow the same instructions but cook in a 325°F oven for about 3-4 hours, or until fork-tender.

Can I use a different cut of pork?

While pork shoulder is ideal, pork butt or picnic roast can also work well. Avoid leaner cuts like pork loin, which will become dry.

How can I make this pulled pork spicier?

Increase the cayenne pepper in the rub or add hot sauce to the cooking liquid. You can also serve with spicy BBQ sauce.

Is this pulled pork gluten-free?

The meat preparation is naturally gluten-free, but check your Worcestershire sauce and barbecue sauce labels. Serve on gluten-free buns if needed.

This pulled pork BBQ recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite that you’ll make again and again. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat, tangy sauce, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture creates an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to game day gatherings.

Recipe inspired by: Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork