Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is juicy, tender, and packed with smoky, savory flavors! Cooked low and slow, this pork falls apart effortlessly and is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super tender & juicy – Cooks low and slow for melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
• Easy to make – Just season, set, and forget it!
• Versatile – Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or bowls.
• Great for meal prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Use BBQ sauce, Mexican spices, or a simple salt rub.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pork:

• 4-5 lb pork shoulder (pork butt)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider

For the Spice Rub:

• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme

For Serving (Optional):

• BBQ sauce
• Coleslaw
• Buns or tortillas
• Pickles & red onion

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
2. Rub with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and oregano.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, pressing it in well.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork

1. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth or apple cider around (not over) the pork.
3. Cover and cook on:
   • LOW for 8-10 hours (best for tenderness).
   • HIGH for 4-6 hours (if short on time).

Step 4: Shred the Pork

1. Once the pork is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker.
2. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding excess fat.
3. Mix the pork back into the juices for extra moisture.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve with BBQ sauce on buns, in tacos, or over rice!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 hours (LOW) or 4-6 hours (HIGH)
• Total Time: Up to 10 hours

Variations

• BBQ Pulled Pork – Toss with ½ cup BBQ sauce before serving.
• Mexican Pulled Pork (Carnitas) – Add lime juice & cumin.
• Spicy Pulled Pork – Use extra cayenne & hot sauce.
• Sweet & Tangy – Add 1 tbsp honey & apple cider vinegar.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in portions.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan with a little broth or BBQ sauce.

FAQs

Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?

Yes, but it will be leaner and less juicy.

Do I need to sear the pork before slow cooking?

No, but searing adds extra flavor if you have time.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Pressure cook on HIGH for 60 minutes, then natural release.

What’s the best way to serve pulled pork?

On buns, tacos, rice bowls, nachos, or baked potatoes!

How do I keep pulled pork from drying out?

Mix it with some cooking juices before serving.

Can I cook this overnight?

Yes! Let it cook overnight on LOW, then shred in the morning.

What’s the best cut of pork for this recipe?

Pork shoulder (pork butt) is best for flavor and tenderness.

Can I use frozen pork?

Yes! Thaw overnight before cooking for best results.

What if my pulled pork is too salty?

Add a little brown sugar or lemon juice to balance it out.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes! Roast at 300°F (150°C) for 4-5 hours, covered.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re serving it BBQ-style, in tacos, or for meal prep, this tender, fall-apart pork is a must-try comfort food. Make it today and enjoy effortless, delicious pulled pork!

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