Ingredients for Slow cooker pulled pork

• 4-5 pounds boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt): The foundation of this dish, providing rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Choose a well-marbled Boston butt.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the sauce as it slowly cooks down. Don’t skip this foundational flavor builder.
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced: Provides pungent, savory depth, complementing the pork beautifully. Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful liquid environment for tenderizing the pork. Use low-sodium broth to control overall saltiness.
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds essential tang and acidity, balancing the richness of the pork and BBQ sauce. Also helps tenderize the meat.
• 1 1/2 cups your favorite BBQ sauce: The essential finish, providing classic smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor. Use your favorite BBQ sauce for ultimate slow cooker pulled pork taste.
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Contributes sweetness and helps create a beautiful caramelization in the sauce. Packed brown sugar ensures accurate measurement.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a layer of complex umami and savory depth to the sauce. It’s a secret weapon for rich, slow cooker flavor.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Infuses a wonderful smoky aroma and color without needing a smoker. Spanish smoked paprika is always my preference.
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional): Boosts the smoky flavor, especially useful in a slow cooker. Start with a small amount, as it’s potent.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making them pop. Kosher salt provides better control and dissolves evenly.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery bite and warmth, rounding out the spice profile. Freshly ground is always superior.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat): Provides a gentle kick of heat, balancing the sweetness and richness. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• 12 hamburger buns: The classic vehicle for serving delicious slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches. Toast them lightly for added texture.
• 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix: Offers a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the rich, tender pork. A creamy coleslaw is a perfect pairing.

How to Make Slow cooker pulled pork

Season Pork:

Begin by patting the pork shoulder dry. Generously season all sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. This foundational seasoning is key for delicious slow cooker pulled pork. Chop the onion and mince the garlic next.

Add Ingredients:

Place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker. Scatter the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic around the pork. Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, ensuring the liquids surround the meat.

Create Sauce:

In a separate bowl, whisk together your favorite BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and liquid smoke. This creates the rich, smoky base for your slow cooker pulled pork. Stir until fully combined and smooth.

Slow Cook:

Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

Shred Pork:

Carefully remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork until it’s in bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded slow cooker pulled pork to the sauce.

Assemble Sandwiches:

Stir the shredded pork thoroughly with the sauce in the slow cooker, allowing it to absorb all the flavors. Keep it warm on the “keep warm” setting. Lightly toast hamburger buns if desired for extra texture before serving.

Serve Warm:

Serve your incredible Slow cooker pulled pork warm on toasted hamburger buns, topped with a generous scoop of coleslaw for that perfect tangy crunch. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish with family and friends!

How to Store Slow cooker pulled pork

To keep your slow cooker pulled pork fresh, store any leftovers promptly in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. It will stay good for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long; I’ve made that mistake, leading to spoilage. Always check for off smells or slimy texture before reheating to ensure it’s still fresh.

For convenience, you can store the seasoned pork and pre-mixed BBQ sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. This ensures a quick start on cooking day. When reheating, gently warm the pulled pork on the stovetop or in the microwave. A splash of chicken broth helps keep it moist and fresh.

What to Serve with Slow cooker pulled pork

Serve your Slow cooker pulled pork warm on toasted hamburger buns, topped with crisp coleslaw for a classic meal. For occasions, create a fun topping bar with pickles, sliced red onion, or jalapeños. This dish is perfect for any gathering. Pair it with creamy mac and cheese or a cold beer. Enjoy this incredible, crowd-pleasing dish!

My personal favorite way to enjoy this is on a toasted brioche bun, piled high with extra BBQ sauce. The brioche’s sweetness perfectly complements the smoky pork. Pair it with a tangy potato salad for ultimate enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of pork for The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?

No, always use boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt) for The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Leaner cuts become dry and tough, a mistake I’ve made. Its fat renders beautifully, ensuring tender, juicy results every time.

→ How do I prevent dry, flavorless Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?

To prevent dry, flavorless results, always pat your pork shoulder dry and season generously first. This foundational seasoning is crucial. Also, cook until it’s truly fork-tender; don’t rush perfection, otherwise it won’t shred easily.

→ Can I make The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pulled Pork ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You can store the seasoned pork and pre-mixed BBQ sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Cooked pulled pork also freezes well for up to 3 months, making hosting effortless.

→ How long can I store leftover Slow Cooker Pulled Pork in the fridge?

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Pulled Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will stay good for 3-4 days. Always check for any off smells or slimy texture before reheating to ensure freshness.

→ Can I halve this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe for a smaller family meal?

Yes, you can easily halve this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe for fewer servings. Use about 2-2.5 pounds of pork shoulder and adjust all other ingredients proportionally. Cooking time might be slightly less, so check for fork-tenderness.