Crockpot Pulled Pork

Let’s talk comfort food. What is the kind of comfort food that practically cooks itself? What’s your go-to snack?Crockpot Pulled Pork:Think of it as the BBQ equivalent of a warm hug, but way easier to throw together than, say, trying to try to eat pizza. How do I make a fancy brisket? I remember my grandma always making a version of this for family gatherings, and the aroma alone. Would it make your mouth water? What’s the difference between a smoker and slave, and I get the same delicious results by smoking. How do I let my Slow Cooker do all the work? On a busy weeknight, or even if it’s just me, this recipe is game-changer. If you try this, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it every week?

What is a crockpot cooked pork?

So, what exactly *is* Crockpot Pulled Pork? Simply put, it’s a pork shoulder (also sometimes called a Boston butt, even though it’s from the shoulder!) that’s cooked low and slow in a crockpot, or Slow Cooker, until it’s fall-apart tender. Think of it as the ultimate hands-off cooking method. It’s essentially taking a relatively tough cut of meat and transforming it into something melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows the pork to braise in its own juices and whatever flavorful liquids you add, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful pulled pork. You then shred the pork with a fork and toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce. It’s so simple, yet so satisfying. It’s the perfect centerpiece for sandwiches, tacos, or even just a hearty plate piled high with your favorite sides.

Why do I love this recipe?

Why do you love this Crockpot Pulled Pork? First and foremost, the human body.flavorWhat are some of the best smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors at the same time? The combination of spices and the long, slow cooking process creates a depth of flavor that you just have to taste. Can’t achieve with faster cooking methods. What I love most about this is how beautiful it is.easyIs it embarrassingly simple? Is it safe to put everything in a crockpot and let it cook? I’m too tired to cook. What should I do? Plus, it’s incrediblycost-efficientPork shoulder is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, especially compared to other BBQ favorites. What is the best way to feed a crowd? And finally, the last one: theversatilityCan you use pulled pork in a variety of ways? On sandwiches, tacos, salads…the possibilities are endless! I think it’s even more versatile than rotisserie chicken. I mean, you can just eat it straight from the crockpot with a fork…not that I’ve ever done that. (Okay, maybe once or twice!

How do I make a crockpot Pulled Pork?

Quick Overview

How do I make a Crockpot Pulled Pork? How do you rub pork shoulder with a spice blend? What is the best way to sear a chicken? I like to use Apple Cider vinegar and chicken broth. I also like using a crockpot. Set it on low and let it cook all day, or on high if you’re in a rush. Once it’s fall-apart tender, shred it with two forks, mix in your favorite BBQ sauce, and you’re done! Ready to serve. Is it foolproof?

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing, optional)

For the Dry Rub: For a dry rub:

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

For the Crockpot: What is

• 1 cup Apple Cider vinegar
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)

How do I learn step

Step 1: Prepare the Pork & Dry Rub

First, pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the dry rub adhere better. In a small bowl, whisk together all the dry rub ingredients until well combined. What is the best way to rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat every nook and cranny of the meat. Where does the flavor magic happen?

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional)

This step is totally optional, but I highly recommend it! In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. What are some ways to cook pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side? What is the best way to cook a steak? If your skillet isn’t big enough, you might need to do this in batches.

Step 3: Add to Crockpot

Place the seared pork shoulder in the crockpot. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth over the pork. The liquid should come about halfway up the side of the pork. If it doesn’t, add a little broth.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. When pork is fall-apart tender, it easily shreds with a fork. I usually go for the longer cook time on low. It just makes it so incredibly tender!

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any large pieces of fat or bone.

Step 6: Add BBQ Sauce

How do I cook shredded pork in a crockpot? Let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This is the part where you get to customize it to your liking! I usually opt for a smoky BBQ sauce, but I also like tangy ones.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Can you serve the Crockpot Pulled Pork on buns for sandwiches, in tacos, over nacho’s? What are some of the best side dishes to serve? Coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad.

What should I serve it with?

What do you serve with this Crockpot Pulled Pork? What are some of my favorite pairings?For a classic BBQ spread, try this recipe.If you’re a vegetarian, you absolutely need coleslaw What is the perfect contrast to the rich, smoky pork? I like to add a little bit of pulled pork to my baked beans. I have roasted potatoes and baked potatoes. What are some good ways to serve them? What are some good side dishes to serve with Potato Salad?For a fun taco night, serve the pulled pork with warm tortillas, your favorite taco toppings (think shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream), and a side of Mexican rice and black beans. This is always a crowd-pleaser! If you’re looking for something a little lighter, try serving the pulled pork over a bed of mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing. Add some grilled corn and black beans for extra flavor and texture. My family loves it when I make pulled pork sliders with Hawaiian rolls and a pineapple salsa. Trust me on this one – it’s a flavor explosion!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Pulled Pork

Alright, here are a few of my best tips for making the absolute *best* Crockpot Pulled Pork you’ve ever tasted. Don’t skip the dry rub! This is where the majority of the flavor comes from, so be generous with the spices. Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your liking – add more chili powder for extra heat, or more brown sugar for a sweeter flavor. Searing the pork is optional, but highly recommended. It adds a beautiful crust and a deeper, richer flavor. Just make sure to sear it on all sides for even browning. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different liquids in the crockpot. Apple juice, beer, or even Dr. Pepper can all add unique flavors to the pork. I’ve even used a splash of bourbon once, and it was incredible! Cook it low and slow. This is key for achieving that fall-apart tender texture. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high, but the pork will be even more tender if you cook it on low for a longer period. Let the pork rest before shredding it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more moist and flavorful pulled pork. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 30 minutes before shredding. I’ve learned this the hard way – trying to shred it while it’s super hot is a recipe for burned fingers! Don’t overdo the BBQ sauce! You want the pork to be coated in sauce, but not drowning in it. Start with a cup of sauce and add more as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away! And finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Coleslaw, pickles, onions, jalapenos…the possibilities are endless. Have fun and make it your own!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Okay, let’s talk about how to store and reheat your leftover Crockpot Pulled Pork. For refrigerator storage, let the pulled pork cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. For freezer storage, wrap the pulled pork tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for 2-3 months. Make sure to label it with the date so you know how long it’s been in there! When reheating from the refrigerator, you can reheat the pulled pork in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. For the microwave, simply heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For the stovetop, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. For the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and heat the pulled pork in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through. When reheating from the freezer, thaw the pulled pork in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using any of the methods mentioned above. I usually add a little extra BBQ sauce when reheating to help keep it moist. Trust me, even reheated, this Crockpot Pulled Pork is still incredibly delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?

While pork shoulder (Boston butt) is the ideal cut for pulled pork, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin in a pinch. However, these cuts are leaner and may not be as tender or flavorful as pork shoulder. If using pork loin or tenderloin, reduce the cooking time and add a little extra liquid to the crockpot to keep it moist.

Can I make this without a crockpot?

Yes! You can also make pulled pork in the oven or in an Instant Pot. For the oven, preheat the oven to 325°F and cook the pork shoulder in a Dutch oven or roasting pan covered with foil for 3-4 hours, or until fall-apart tender. For the Instant Pot, cook the pork shoulder on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Can I use a different BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or experiment with different flavors. Sweet, smoky, tangy, spicy…the choice is yours! You can even make your own BBQ sauce from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious. I’ve tried a honey-mustard BBQ sauce, and it was surprisingly amazing!

How can I make this spicier?

If you like your pulled pork with a kick, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dry rub. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crockpot. If you’re feeling really brave, you can even add a chopped jalapeno or habanero pepper to the crockpot. Just be careful – a little goes a long way!

Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?

Yes! Adding vegetables to the crockpot can add extra flavor and moisture to the pulled pork. Onions, garlic, and bell peppers are all great additions. Simply chop the vegetables and add them to the crockpot along with the pork.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for the easiest, most flavorful Crockpot Pulled Pork you’ll ever make. It’s truly a set-it-and-forget-it kind of recipe that delivers incredible results every time. I hope you give it a try and see for yourself why it’s become such a staple in my family. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other easy crockpot recipes! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ways to spice things up (literally!).