pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe

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The Best pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork
🥘Ingredients
👨‍🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork

The Best pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe

I have to say, this pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe is one of my all time favorites. It is so simple to throw together in the morning, and by dinner time, the whole house smells amazing. My kids absolutely love it, and my husband always goes back for seconds. It is perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering with friends.

The best part is how the root beer tenderizes the pork shoulder, making it incredibly juicy and easy to shred. You get this sweet and savory flavor that is just irresistible. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, which is a lifesaver on hectic days. I also like that it is a protein packed meal that can be served in many ways, from sandwiches to tacos or just on its own with some coleslaw.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork

4.6 from 1013 votes

This tender and flavorful pulled pork is made effortlessly in your slow cooker with root beer. The soda adds a subtle sweetness that caramelizes as it cooks, creating a deliciously sticky and savory shredded pork.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time8 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time8 hours 10 mins

Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

4-5 pound boneless pork shoulder

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

12 ounce can of root beer (not diet)

For the BBQ Sauce

1 cup ketchup

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Remove the pork shoulder from the fridge and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the pork into 4-5 large chunks to help it cook evenly.

2In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork chunks.

3Place the seasoned pork chunks into the slow cooker. Pour the entire can of root beer over the pork.

4Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.

5While the pork is cooking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

6Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker to a cutting board. Reserve about 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Discard the rest.

7Using two forks, shred the pork into bite sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and pour the reserved cooking liquid and the prepared BBQ sauce over the top. Stir to combine.

8Let the pork cook on warm for another 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve on buns, tortillas, or as desired.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker

Cutting board

Chef’s knife

Measuring spoons

Two forks for shredding

Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the reserved cooking liquid with the BBQ sauce for a few extra minutes. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Works

This pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe is a true winner for any occasion. It is easy, delicious, and always a hit with my family and friends. I hope you give it a try and see for yourself how simple and satisfying it can be.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork

1. Can I use diet root beer for this recipe?

I would not recommend using diet root beer. The sugar in regular root beer is what helps tenderize the meat and creates that nice caramelized flavor. Diet versions can leave the pork with a bitter aftertaste.

2. Do I need to brown the pork before putting it in the slow cooker?

No, you do not need to brown it. This recipe is designed to be simple. The pork comes out incredibly tender and flavorful without any extra steps. If you have time, searing it can add a bit more depth, but it is not necessary.

3. How do I store leftover pulled pork?

Let the pulled pork cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm it in a skillet or in the microwave with a splash of water or extra sauce.

4. Can I make this recipe with a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can use a pork butt or a picnic shoulder. Both are well marbled cuts that become very tender when cooked low and slow. Avoid using lean cuts like pork loin, as they will dry out.

5. What can I serve with this pulled pork?

This pulled pork is very versatile. I love serving it on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich. It is also great in tacos, on nachos, or over rice. Some simple sides like baked beans or corn on the cob round out the meal nicely.

pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe

The Best pulled pork and root beer slow cooker recipe

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork