Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
If you love my #1 post, The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, then you’ll love this BBQ pulled pork version too! With simple seasoning, this recipe takes only minutes to prepare and cooks all day for fall-apart tender, juicy pork oozing with tangy sweet sauce. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just a few minutes of prep is all it takes to set and forget this slow cooker dish.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of herb seasoning and BBQ sauce creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it on buns for sandwiches, over rice for a hearty meal, or with sides like coleslaw for a complete dinner.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for parties or leftovers throughout the week.
- Perfectly Tender Meat: Cooking low and slow ensures the pork is juicy and easy to shred.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe; it allows for hands-free cooking while infusing flavors over hours.
- Measuring cups: Ensures perfect proportions of ingredients for consistent results every time.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauces and keeping your preparation area organized.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your delectable Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork:
For the Pork
- 3 pound boneless pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons herb and garlic seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Rub the pork shoulder generously with the herb and garlic seasoning. This step will enhance the meat’s flavor during cooking. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir until well blended. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Check that the pork reaches an internal temperature of 205 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal tenderness.
Step 4: Shred the Pork
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Using two forks or meat claws, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Add Juices Back In
Return about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the cooking juices back into the shredded pork. Discard any remaining liquid unless you want extra moisture.
Step 6: Serve with Extra Sauce (Optional)
If desired, mix in additional BBQ sauce to taste before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork!
How to Serve Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, here are some delicious serving ideas that will elevate your meal.
Sandwiches
- Serve the pulled pork on a soft bun with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw for a classic sandwich option.
Tacos
- Use corn tortillas to create flavorful tacos topped with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Over Rice
- Spoon the pulled pork over a bed of fluffy rice and add your favorite vegetables for a hearty meal.
Salad Topper
- Add the pulled pork to a fresh green salad for a protein-packed lunch option. Drizzle with ranch or extra BBQ sauce.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Fill baked sweet potatoes with the pulled pork and a dollop of sour cream for a wholesome dish.
Nachos
- Layer tortilla chips with pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for an indulgent snack.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
To achieve the best Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, follow these simple tips that ensure tender meat and rich flavors.
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Choose the right cut: Opt for boneless pork shoulder as it has the perfect balance of fat and meat for shredding.
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Season generously: Don’t be shy with your herb and garlic seasoning; it enhances the flavor profile immensely.
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Cook low and slow: Cooking on low heat for longer yields more tender results than using high heat.
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Let it rest: Allow the pulled pork to rest after cooking; this helps retain juices when shredding.
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Use quality BBQ sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce that complements your taste—sweet, tangy, or spicy works well.
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Save the juices: Adding some of the cooking juices back into the shredded pork keeps it moist and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
When serving Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, selecting complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds freshness and balances the richness of the pulled pork.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with smoky flavors in BBQ dishes.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans bring sweetness and protein to round out your meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a comforting texture that complements pulled pork well.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy comfort food is always a hit alongside BBQ meals.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a nice contrast to rich flavors; consider serving them on the side.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pulled pork.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the Wrong Cut of Meat: Always opt for a boneless pork shoulder, as it becomes tender and juicy. Other cuts may not yield the same results.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season the pork can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you rub the meat thoroughly with seasonings for maximum taste.
- Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking times can vary. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 205 degrees for perfect tenderness.
- Not Adding Enough Liquid: If you don’t add enough liquid, the pork may dry out. Stick to the recipe’s liquid measurements for optimal moisture.
- Ignoring Rest Time: Shredding the pork too soon can result in a loss of juices. Let it rest before shredding to keep it moist and flavorful.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.
Freezing Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through; add a splash of BBQ sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork.
What is the best cut of meat for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork?
The best cut is boneless pork shoulder, as it becomes tender during cooking and absorbs flavors well.
How long should I cook Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork?
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the internal temperature reaches 205 degrees.
Can I make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork spicy?
Yes! Add your favorite spices or hot sauce to the seasoning mix before cooking to give it a kick.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork?
This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different sauces or spices based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy tender, flavorful pork that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a deliciously simple yet satisfying meal, this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is your answer. Juicy, tender pork shoulder slowly cooked with a flavorful blend of herb and garlic seasoning, all enveloped in a rich BBQ sauce, makes for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to game day gatherings. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while you enjoy the tantalizing aromas wafting through your home. Serve it on buns, over rice, or as part of a vibrant salad—the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
- 3 pound boneless pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons herb and garlic seasoning
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Rub the pork shoulder generously with herb and garlic seasoning and place in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Pour the sauce over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the internal temperature reaches 205 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix in some of the cooking juices before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of recipe (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
