Print

Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is juicy, tender, and packed with smoky, savory flavors. With just 5 minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the work, making this a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt) (boneless or bone-in)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional but recommended!)
  • 1 cup chicken broth or apple juice (keeps the pork juicy!)
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (for extra flavor, optional!)

For the Dry Rub:

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (balances the flavors!)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika (adds smokiness!)
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (adds warmth!)
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat!)

For Serving:

  • Extra BBQ sauce (for serving!)
  • Buns, tortillas, or coleslaw (depending on how you serve it!)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  1. Pat the pork dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together all dry rub ingredients.
  3. Rub the spice mix all over the pork, coating evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional, But Adds Flavor!)

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
  3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork

  1. Pour chicken broth or apple juice into the slow cooker.
  2. (Optional) Add ½ cup BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
  3. Cover and cook on:
    • LOW for 8-10 hours (best for tender, fall-apart pork!)
    • HIGH for 5-6 hours (still great, but slightly less tender!)

Step 4: Shred & Serve

  1. Transfer pork to a large bowl and shred with two forks.
  2. Mix in extra BBQ sauce or some of the cooking juices for moisture.
  3. Serve warm on buns, tacos, rice bowls, or over mashed potatoes!

Serving Suggestions

  • Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw and BBQ sauce.
  • Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with pulled pork, avocado, and salsa.
  • Meal Prep: Store in containers with rice and veggies for easy meals.

Notes

  • No searing? No problem! The slow cooker will still make it tender and delicious.
  • Want crispy edges? After shredding, spread pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes.
  • Spicy version? Add more cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/best-slow-cooker-pulled-pork/