This slow cooker pulled pork is super easy and packed with flavor. Just toss the pork in, add some spices, and let the magic happen while you relax!
Your house will smell amazing, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready by dinner. I love to serve it on buns with a little slaw for a yummy sandwich that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking due to its marbling, which keeps it juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin, but keep an eye on cooking time as it cooks faster.
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. However, you can swap it with vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce for a personal touch. For a tangy alternative, apple cider vinegar or mustard-based sauces work well too. You can also make your own blend if you’re into experimenting!
Spices: The combination of spices is key here! If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the chili powder or skip it. For a more smoky flavor, add some liquid smoke to the broth mixture.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Great Sear on the Pork?
Searing the pork shoulder is essential for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil.
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely.
- Cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush this step; a good sear means more flavor!
Letting the pork rest for a few minutes post-searing will help keep those delicious juices locked in. It’s worth it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Items:
- burger buns for serving
- coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to allow 4 to 10 hours for cooking, depending on whether you choose low or high heat in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
First, grab your pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and gives extra flavor to your dish. Don’t skip this step!
2. Sear the Meat:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork shoulder. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until it’s browned all over. This browning step is crucial because it packs in flavor!
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Now, place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for your pulled pork.
4. Add the Pork:
Transfer the beautifully seared pork shoulder from the skillet to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the onions and garlic.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the chicken or beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Pour this delicious sauce mixture evenly over the pork in the slow cooker.
6. Cook the Pork:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. For a low and slow approach, cook it on low for 8 to 10 hours, or if you’re short on time, set it to high for 4 to 6 hours. Your pork should be tender and easy to shred when it’s done!
7. Shred the Pork:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it well to mix with the tasty sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your pulled pork is ready to be served! Pile it onto burger buns and top with coleslaw if you like. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork, you can also use pork loin or even beef brisket. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, and pork loin can dry out faster, so monitor it closely.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
Don’t have barbecue sauce on hand? You can make a simple substitution with ketchup mixed with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, a tablespoon of brown sugar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. This will mimic the sweet and tangy flavor of barbecue sauce!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any pulled pork leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can make pulled pork in the oven. Simply follow the same steps but place the pork in a covered Dutch oven or a baking dish at 300°F (150°C) and cook for about 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender. You may need to add a bit of water or broth to prevent drying out.
