This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork is so easy and tasty, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner! Just mix together some spices and BBQ sauce, add the pork, and let it cook low and slow.
You’ll love how tender the meat is when it’s done. I can’t help but pile it high on a bun, then add some crunchy slaw. Perfect for family gatherings or game day—just keep napkins handy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for slow cooking because it’s fatty and tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, pork loin can work too, though it’s leaner and may dry out. Some folks even use chicken for a lighter option!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for the base. It’s a great way to personalize this dish. For a healthier option, look for a low-sugar sauce or try making your own! You can adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup.
Chicken Broth or Apple Cider: Both add moisture and flavor. If you prefer a non-broth option, vegetable broth can also work. For a sweeter note, use apple juice. I love how apple cider adds a fun tang!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a rich, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika plus a little liquid smoke can be a nice alternative. For heat, cayenne pepper is optional, but I like to add just a pinch to bring up the flavor!
Coleslaw: While optional, it adds crunch and freshness. You can substitute it with any quick pickled veggies for a tangy twist or use a store-bought slaw mix for convenience!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Shredded Pork?
Shredding the pork properly can make a big difference in the dish’s texture. Here’s how you can easily do it:
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
- Use two forks, one to hold the meat, and the other to shred. Pull apart the meat in opposite directions.
- If there’s tough fat, just pull it off and discard. You want soft, tasty pieces!
Returning the shredded meat to the crockpot helps all the flavors mingle and makes the pork super flavorful. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice, plus more for serving)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or apple cider
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
- Fresh rolls or buns for serving
- Coleslaw for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pulled pork takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the crockpot for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. Perfect for a lazy day or a busy evening when you want a tasty meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Then, season it generously with salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you’re up for a little heat), and brown sugar. Make sure to cover the pork well with the spices. This will add tons of flavor!
2. Set Up the Crockpot:
Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the crockpot. This is where the magic happens! Make sure it fits snugly, but there’s no need to pack it in tightly.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth (or apple cider), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir this mixture well, then pour it over the pork in the crockpot. This sauce will keep the pork moist and flavorful as it cooks.
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and choose your cooking time. If you’re cooking on low, let it go for 8-10 hours; on high, 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork. The longer you cook it, the more flavorful it becomes!
5. Shred the Pork:
Once the pork is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat. It should fall apart easily—no muscles necessary here!
6. Mix with BBQ Sauce:
Return the shredded pork back to the crockpot. Mix it with the BBQ sauce that’s left in the pot, allowing it to soak up all those amazing flavors. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt if you think it needs a little extra kick.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the pulled pork on fresh rolls or buns. Drizzle with more BBQ sauce, and if you like, top it off with coleslaw for a nice crunch. Enjoy your hearty meal, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content and tenderness, you can use pork loin or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that these cuts are leaner and may dry out more easily, so consider adding a bit more liquid or sauce during cooking to prevent this.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re looking to reduce the heat, simply omit the cayenne pepper. For added heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce directly into the sauce mixture. Taste and adjust as you go—it’s always easier to add than to take away!
Can I Freeze Leftover Pulled Pork?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the pulled pork to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Pulled Pork?
Pulled pork is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it with baked beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. For a classic touch, coleslaw is always a hit—its crunch complements the tender pulled pork perfectly!
