barbecue pulled pork crock pot recipe
- The Best barbecue pulled pork crock pot recipe
- Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce
The Best barbecue pulled pork crock pot recipe
The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, so I can focus on other things while the pork simmers, and the results are always the same: juicy, flavorful meat that tastes like it was made with love. My family loves how it’s easy to customize—whether I’m adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist or mixing in some BBQ sauce at the end for extra sweetness. It’s also surprisingly healthy if you keep the portions in check, with lean protein and all the good stuff from the spices and veggies I toss in. No one ever knows it’s not just meat and sauce—it’s a whole meal that’s always a hit.
Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce
A tender, fall-apart pulled pork slow-cooked in a crock pot, served over soft buns with a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day feasts.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat the crock pot to Low setting. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry with paper towels. -
2
In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork, coating all surfaces. -
3
Place the pork in the crock pot and add 2 cups of water or beef broth. Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or until the meat shreds easily with a fork. -
4
Remove the pork from the crock pot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot. Stir in BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Mix well to combine. -
5
Cook on High for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over soft buns.
🔧Equipment
- Crock pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Smoky BBQ Sauce
How long should I cook the pulled pork in the crockpot?
Cook the pork shoulder for about 6 to 7 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The meat should fall apart easily when pulled, and the internal temperature should reach 195°F to 203°F to ensure tender, flavorful results.
Can I use any type of pork shoulder for this recipe?
Yes, but for best results, choose a bone-in pork shoulder (also called butcher’s shoulder). Bone-in cuts tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking. If using boneless, it may dry out faster—just monitor closely.
What’s the best way to shred the pulled pork?
After cooking, let the pork rest for 10 to 15 minutes before shredding. Use two forks or your hands to pull the meat apart into shreds. For extra tenderness, you can also lightly mash the meat with a potato masher before shredding.
Can I add other seasonings besides the recipe’s suggested rub?
Absolutely! For deeper flavor, try mixing in garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, or even a splash of BBQ sauce before adding the pork. Just avoid overpowering the natural pork taste—keep it balanced.
How do I store or reheat the pulled pork?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it in the crockpot on low for 1 to 1.5 hours or in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent drying.
