Description
How to make slow cooker pulled pork with tender pork shoulder and tangy BBQ sauce that’s perfect for feeding a crowd effortlessly.
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Components:
- 4–5 pounds boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 18-ounce bottle (about 2 cups) your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- Flavor Builders:
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
- Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Serving & Toppings:
- 12–16 hamburger buns
- 1 bag (14 ounces) coleslaw mix (for serving)
- Dill pickle slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Prep Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This initial seasoning builds a flavorful crust. Ensure all sides are coated for the best slow cooker pulled pork.
- Whisk Sauce: In your slow cooker, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. This forms the essential tangy base for your pulled pork.
- Layer Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and chili powder to the liquid base. Place the seasoned pork shoulder directly on top. Ensure the ingredients are well distributed around the pork.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooker pulled pork is done when it easily shreds with two forks. Resist peeking to maintain heat!
- Shred Meat: Carefully remove the tender pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the sauce.
- Serve Pulled Pork: Stir the shredded pork thoroughly into the sauce. Serve your amazing slow cooker pulled pork hot on hamburger buns with coleslaw mix and dill pickle slices. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser!
Notes
Resist peeking into the slow cooker to maintain consistent heat and prevent extended cooking times.
Always use boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt) for juicy, tender pulled pork, not leaner cuts.
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Customize flavor using your favorite BBQ sauce; a smoky or tangy variety works well.
Serve hot on toasted hamburger buns with creamy coleslaw and dill pickles for a classic meal.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Eggs, Gluten, Soy, Fish