Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

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Are you craving tender, juicy pulled pork but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Your slow cooker is here to save the day! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create mouthwatering pulled pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even on its own.

You’ll love how easy it is to make this crowd-pleasing dish. Simply rub your pork with spices, add some liquid, and let your slow cooker work its magic. In a few hours, you’ll have delicious pulled pork ready to enjoy with family and friends.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here’s what you’ll need to make slow cooker pulled pork:

• 3-4 pound pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 cup apple juice (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon each: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika

Don’t have these exact items? No worries! Try these swaps:

• Use pork loin instead of shoulder (it’s leaner but still tasty)
• Swap apple juice for pineapple juice or beer
• Replace BBQ sauce with ketchup mixed with worcestershire sauce
• Sub white vinegar for apple cider vinegar

For a spicier kick, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you like it sweeter, toss in more brown sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Remember, the slow cooker does most of the work. Your job is to mix the ingredients and let it cook low and slow. After 8-10 hours, you’ll have tender, flavorful pulled pork ready to enjoy!

Instructions

Start by placing your pork in a 4-6 quart slow cooker. Pour in some apple juice for added flavor.

Mix your seasonings in a small bowl. Sprinkle half over the pork, then flip it and add the rest. This ensures even flavor throughout.

Cover and cook on low for 8-12 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender it’ll be. You’ll know it’s done when it shreds easily with a fork.

Once cooked, take the pork out and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This helps keep the meat juicy.

Shred the pork using two forks. It should fall apart with little effort.

Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix it with the cooking juices. This keeps everything moist and flavorful.

Serve your pulled pork on buns or as is. You can add barbecue sauce if you like, but it’s tasty on its own too!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Cut your pork into 6 even pieces before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and speeds up the process.

Season the meat well with salt and pepper or a BBQ dry rub. Don’t be shy – coat the entire exterior for maximum flavor.

After cooking, let the pork rest for 20-60 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat moister.

Shred the pork with two forks. It should fall apart easily.

For extra flavor, add some of the cooking liquid back into the shredded meat.

To store leftovers, place the pulled pork in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

You can also freeze pulled pork for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place the pork in a covered dish with a splash of liquid. Warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

For a crispy texture, spread reheated pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes.

Try using leftover pulled pork in tacos, sandwiches, or on top of baked potatoes for easy meals.