Crockpot Pulled Pork

Enjoy tender, flavorful Crockpot Pulled Pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just on its own! This easy recipe uses a slow cooker to transform a pork shoulder into succulent, shredded meat, infused with spices and barbecue sauce. Let’s get started!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pulled pork:

For the Pulled Pork

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Serving

• Buns (for sandwiches)
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
• Extra barbecue sauce (for serving)

Timing

Here’s a breakdown of the timing for preparing this pulled pork:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 8-5 hours (depending on cooking method)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

1. Trim the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder if necessary, but leave some for flavor.
2. Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional)

1. Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Pork: Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

1. Layer the Onions: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the Pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
3. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.

Step 4: Cook the Pulled Pork

1. Set the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

1. Remove and Shred: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat.
2. Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with the juices and onions. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Serve

1. Prepare Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on buns with extra barbecue sauce and coleslaw, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	300
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	80mg
Sodium	600mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	6g
Protein	30g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Crockpot Pulled Pork turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Cut: A pork shoulder (or butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content and marbling, which helps keep the meat moist.
• Let It Rest: After shredding, let the meat rest in the juices for a few minutes to enhance flavor.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce or make your own for a personalized touch.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pulled Pork is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any gathering or casual meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be served in various ways. Enjoy this delicious pulled pork with family and friends!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can use pork loin, but it may be less tender than pork shoulder. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! Pulled pork can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed

Crockpot Pulled Pork

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

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Ingredients

• For the Pulled Pork
• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• For Serving
• Buns (for sandwiches)
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
• Extra barbecue sauce (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

1. Trim the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder if necessary, but leave some for flavor.
2. Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional)

1. Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Pork: Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

1. Layer the Onions: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the Pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
3. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.

Step 4: Cook the Pulled Pork

1. Set the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

1. Remove and Shred: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat.
2. Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with the juices and onions. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Serve

1. Prepare Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on buns with extra barbecue sauce and coleslaw, if desired.