Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

If you love my #1 post, The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, then you’ll love this BBQ pulled pork version too! With simple seasoning, this recipe takes only minutes to prepare and cooks all day for fall apart tender, juicy pork oozing with tangy sweet sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, game days, or a cozy dinner at home, this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season the pork and let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Flavorful Result: The combination of BBQ sauce and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish with sides.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for parties or family gatherings; everyone will want seconds!

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, having the right tools is essential. With these handy items, your cooking process will be smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for low and slow cooking, ensuring tender meat that falls apart effortlessly.
• Knife: A good knife allows for easy preparation of your pork shoulder and other ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Pork

• 3 pound boneless pork shoulder

For Seasoning and Sauce

• 2 tablespoons herb and garlic seasoning
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Rub the pork shoulder with the herb and garlic seasoning. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor. Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir well until blended.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s well covered.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 205 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Finish with Juices & Sauce

Add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the cooking juices back into the shredded pork. Discard any remaining juices. If you like extra BBQ flavor, mix in additional BBQ sauce as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork!

How to Serve Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Serving Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is a delightful experience that allows you to get creative with flavors and textures. This tender, flavorful pork can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

On Sandwiches

• Classic BBQ Sandwich: Pile the pulled pork onto a toasted bun and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for a mouthwatering treat.
• Coleslaw Topped: Add crunchy coleslaw on top of your BBQ sandwich for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

In Tacos

• Pulled Pork Tacos: Serve the shredded pork in soft tortillas topped with avocado, diced onions, and cilantro for a zesty twist.
• BBQ Taco Bowls: Layer pulled pork over rice or quinoa in a bowl, adding black beans, corn, and salsa for a filling meal.

With Sides

• With Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the smoky flavor of the pulled pork perfectly.
• On Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and bake until bubbly.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

To achieve the ultimate Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, follow these simple tips. They can help enhance the flavor and texture of your dish significantly.

• Choose the Right Cut: Use a boneless pork shoulder for optimal tenderness and flavor during cooking.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herb and garlic seasoning. A good rub will infuse flavor throughout the meat.
• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, cook on low heat for 8-10 hours. This method ensures the pork becomes tender enough to shred easily.
• Moisture Matters: Adding apple cider vinegar and chicken broth will keep the meat moist while it cooks.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the meat to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices before shredding.
• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Always taste your BBQ sauce before serving. You can mix in more sauce if you prefer a tangier flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and balances out the richness of the pulled pork.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra barbecue sauce left on your plate.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a comforting contrast to spicy or tangy flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition; they can be grilled alongside your main dish.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy texture of mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with smoky pulled pork.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a nice crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat.
7. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes loaded with toppings like sour cream, cheese, and chives for an easy side option.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can absorb excess juices from the pulled pork for added flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not applying enough seasoning can result in bland pork. Always rub your pork shoulder generously with herbs and spices for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking the pork too long can dry it out, while undercooking will leave it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 205 degrees.
• Ignoring the liquid: Failing to add enough liquid can lead to dry pulled pork. Make sure to include BBQ sauce, vinegar, and broth for a juicy outcome.
• Using the wrong cut of meat: Using lean cuts like pork loin can lead to dryness. Stick with a fatty cut like pork shoulder for the best results.
• Not shredding properly: Skimping on shredding can leave large chunks of meat. Take your time to shred the pork thoroughly for better texture and flavor distribution.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

• Place pulled pork in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label them with dates.

Reheating Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the pork with foil. Heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of BBQ sauce or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork that might help you out!

How do I know when my Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is done?

The ideal internal temperature should reach 205 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly tender meat.

Can I use different sauces for my pulled pork?

Absolutely! While BBQ sauce is traditional, feel free to experiment with other sauces like mustard-based or vinegar-based sauces.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, baked beans, or on a bun as sandwiches for a delicious meal.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork?

You can add different spices or herbs based on your preferences and even incorporate various types of wood chips for smoking flavors if desired.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it alone or as part of a hearty sandwich, this recipe allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try it out—your family and friends will love this comforting dish!