This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is tender, tasty, and perfect for easy meals. It cooks slowly in your crockpot with simple ingredients like pork shoulder, spices, and a bit of liquid for a juicy finish.
I find it fun to watch the pork turn so soft it almost falls apart. Sometimes I get a little carried away tasting the sauce while it cooks!
For best results, shred the pork after cooking and serve on buns or with your favorite sides. It’s a stress-free way to make a big, flavorful meal without much fuss.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it’s fatty and tender. I suggest bone-in pork shoulder for more flavor. If unavailable, a pork butt works well. Just trim excess fat to avoid greasiness.
BBQ Sauce: A good sauce gives the pork its signature taste. I like a smoky or tangy sauce, but you can swap with your favorite brand or even make your own. For a milder version, mix with a bit honey or apple cider vinegar.
Onions & Garlic: These build the base flavor. Use fresh onions and garlic for best results. If pressed for time, onion powder and garlic powder are quick substitutes but skip the freshness for optimal flavor.
Spices (Paprika, Cumin, Pepper): These add depth and a hint of warmth. Adjust to your taste—smoked paprika gives a smoky punch, while cumin provides earthiness. Feel free to skip or add more based on your flavor preference.
How Do I Shred Pulled Pork Without It Turning Into Mush?
Allow the pork to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking; it helps preserve the meat’s texture. Use two forks to gently shred; don’t pull too hard to avoid breaking the meat into mush. If it’s too tender, be gentle and patient.
- Step 1: Turn off the slow cooker and let the meat rest, keeping it moist.
- Step 2: Use two forks to gently pull apart the pork along the grain.
- Step 3: If it’s very tender, support the meat with your hands while shredding gently.
- Step 4: Mix shredded meat with some juices or BBQ sauce before serving for flavor and moisture.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Seasonings
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Sauce and Liquids
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 8 hours on low. Rest time: 10 minutes. Total time: approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork
Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place the pork in the slow cooker. Pour barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth around the meat.
3. Cook the Pork
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the Pork
Remove the pork and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to coat.
5. Serve
Let the pork rest for 10 minutes. Serve on buns, with sides, or enjoy as is. Enjoy!
