Description
How to make fall-apart tender Easy Crockpot Pork Shoulder with savory spices and minimal effort that’s perfect for effortless weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pork and Liquid Base:
- 4–5 lbs Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt), bone-in or boneless
- 2 cups Chicken Broth, low sodium
- Aromatics and Flavor Builders:
- 1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- Savory Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
- Fresh Finishers:
- ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 Lime Wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Season Pork: Pat your pork shoulder dry, then generously rub it with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This base sets the stage for our delicious Easy Crockpot Pork Shoulder.
- Add Ingredients: Place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker. Scatter the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic around the pork. This combination creates a rich, aromatic foundation for the slow cooking process.
- Whisk Liquid: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. This tangy-sweet liquid will tenderize the meat beautifully.
- Slow Cook: Pour the liquid mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is fall-apart tender. This is where the magic happens for your Easy Crockpot Pork Shoulder.
- Shred Pork: Carefully remove the tender pork shoulder from the slow cooker and transfer it to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any excess fat. Stir some cooking liquid back in for moisture.
- Garnish & Serve: Return the shredded Easy Crockpot Pork Shoulder to the crockpot with remaining juices, or serve immediately. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy this family favorite!
Notes
Cook on low for 6-8 hours until truly fall-apart tender; this prevents tough meat. Patting dry and seasoning generously deepens flavor.
Store cooled leftovers in airtight container; refrigerate 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Use good quality chicken broth for rich depth of flavor; water will not provide the same savory notes.
Serve warm in tacos, sandwiches, or with mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Sear pork until golden brown before slow cooking for complex flavor. Let shredded pork rest in liquid for ultimate juiciness.
**Allergy Information:** Fish, Gluten