3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
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Want an easy meal that tastes great? Try 3-ingredient slow cooker pulled pork. This recipe is super simple and perfect for busy days. You only need pork, barbecue sauce, and a can of soda to make tender, flavorful pulled pork.
Toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work. After a few hours, you’ll have yummy pulled pork ready to eat. It’s great for sandwiches, tacos, or on its own.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Making pulled pork in a slow cooker is simple and tasty. You only need three main ingredients, but there are some options for substitutions too.
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
You’ll need:
Pork shoulder (3-4 pounds)
- Substitute: Pork butt
Barbecue sauce (1 cup)
- Substitute: Make your own sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices
Root beer (12 ounces)
- Substitutes: Dr. Pepper, cola, or apple juice
For the pork, pick a shoulder or butt cut. These work best for pulling. The barbecue sauce adds flavor, so choose your favorite brand. Root beer gives a sweet touch, but other sodas work too.
Want to change it up? Try apple juice for a fruity twist. Or make your own BBQ sauce to control the taste. You can also add extras like onion soup mix for more flavor.
Remember, the pork is the star. Pick a good cut, and the rest is easy!
Instructions
You’ll love how easy this 3-ingredient pulled pork is to make! Here’s what to do:
Get your slow cooker ready.
Put the pork roast inside. Make sure the fatty side faces up.
Pour a can of root beer or Dr. Pepper over the meat. The soda helps tenderize it.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily shred it with a fork.
Once cooked, take the pork out and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Shred the meat using two forks.
Drain the liquid from the slow cooker.
Put the shredded pork back in.
Add your favorite BBQ sauce and mix well.
Your pulled pork is now ready to serve! Try it on buns for tasty sandwiches. You can also use it in tacos, salads, or even on pizza.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Here are some helpful tips for making perfect pulled pork:
- Choose a pork shoulder or pork butt cut for the best results.
- Pat the meat dry before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Cut slits in the pork to help the flavors penetrate.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the meat shreds easily.
For extra flavor, try these tricks:
- Sear the pork before slow cooking to lock in juices.
- Add a splash of liquid smoke for a smoky taste.
- Mix in some apple cider vinegar at the end for tanginess.
To store your pulled pork:
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
When reheating, add a bit of broth or barbecue sauce to keep the meat moist. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.