Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Slow cooker pulled pork is a fantastic dish that brings everyone together. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family gatherings, game day parties, or a cozy dinner at home. The beauty of this slow cooker pulled pork lies in its simplicity; with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful meal that will impress your guests. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender and juicy, making it the star of any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply mix spices, rub them on the pork, and let the slow cooker do all the work.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The homemade spice rub infuses the pork with rich flavors, ensuring each bite is unforgettable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this pulled pork on buns, with coleslaw, or even as a topping for nachos!
• Perfect for Entertaining: Make enough to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Leftover Friendly: Any leftovers can be easily reheated and used in various dishes throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious slow cooker pulled pork recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe. It cooks the pork low and slow, allowing flavors to meld while keeping the meat tender.
• Large skillet or pot: Used for browning the pork before slow cooking, which enhances flavor through caramelization.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, bone-in or boneless; can also use country style pork ribs
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
– 1 onion (chopped)
– Optional for serving: buns, coleslaw, barbecue sauce

How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Rub this mixture all over your chosen cut of pork.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat with about 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Once hot, brown the pork shoulder on all sides for about 3–4 minutes per side until nicely seared.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork

Place the browned pork shoulder in the slow cooker along with chopped onions. Set your slow cooker to low and allow it to cook for approximately 8 hours. This long cooking time will help develop deep flavors while making the meat incredibly tender.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

After cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker using two forks to shred it. Mix it thoroughly with any pan sauce that has accumulated in the cooker. Serve your delicious slow cooker pulled pork on toasted buns topped with coleslaw for an amazing meal.

Enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Slow cooker pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On Buns

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Pile the tender pulled pork onto toasted buns for a classic sandwich option.
• Sliders: Use small rolls to create delightful sliders perfect for appetizers or parties.

With Coleslaw

• Creamy Coleslaw: Top your pulled pork with creamy coleslaw for a crunchy texture and refreshing flavor.
• Vinegar-Based Slaw: A tangy vinegar slaw adds brightness and balance to the richness of the pork.

With Barbecue Sauce

• BBQ Drench: Drizzle your favorite barbecue sauce over the pulled pork for an extra kick of flavor.
• Sauce on the Side: Serve with a small bowl of barbecue sauce for guests to add as they like.

As Tacos

• Pulled Pork Tacos: Fill soft corn tortillas with pulled pork and top with fresh cilantro and diced onions.
• Loaded Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for hearty nachos.

In Salads

• Pulled Pork Salad: Top mixed greens with shredded pork, tomatoes, and avocado for a hearty salad.
• BBQ Chicken Salad Twist: Replace chicken in your favorite BBQ salad recipe with pulled pork for a flavorful change.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Perfecting slow cooker pulled pork is all about technique and patience. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Choose the Right Cut: Select a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor during cooking.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spice rub; allowing it to penetrate deeply into the meat enhances taste.
• Brown Before Cooking: Searing the meat helps lock in juices and adds depth of flavor before slow cooking.
• Use Low Heat: Cooking on low heat over several hours ensures the meat becomes tender without drying out.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the meat to rest before shredding. This helps retain moisture for juicier results.
• Mix In The Juices: After shredding, mix the meat back into its cooking juices for added flavor and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Pairing side dishes with slow cooker pulled pork can take your meal to new heights. Here are some fantastic options that complement this savory dish beautifully.

1. Baked Beans: Classic baked beans offer sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory pulled pork flavors.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to spicy barbecue sauces and rich meats.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a traditional side that adds comfort and substance to your meal.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add freshness and color to balance out the richness of the pork.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that complements any barbecue dish nicely.
6. Pickles or Pickled Veggies: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of pulled pork, adding brightness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making slow cooker pulled pork, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common errors and how to prevent them.

• Skipping the spice rub: Failing to apply the homemade spice rub means your pork may lack flavor. Always coat the meat thoroughly for a delicious result.
• Not browning the meat: If you skip browning the pork before cooking, you miss out on developing rich flavors. Take time to sear the meat for three to four minutes per side.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking on high instead of low can lead to tough pork, while not cooking long enough will leave it chewy. Stick to the low setting for 8 hours for perfect tenderness.
• Ignoring resting time: Shredding immediately after cooking can make the meat dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep it moist.
• Forgetting about liquid: Not adding enough moisture can lead to dry pulled pork. Always include onions or a small amount of broth in your slow cooker for better results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store slow cooker pulled pork in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

• Place cooled pulled pork in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pork in a baking dish with a splash of broth; cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, add a bit of liquid, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a little water or broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about slow cooker pulled pork.

How do I make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork spicy?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños into your spice rub. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?

Yes, other cuts like country-style ribs work well. They also become tender during slow cooking.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Pulled Pork?

Pair it with toasted buns, coleslaw, or even nachos for a fun twist!

How long does Slow Cooker Pulled Pork last?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 4 days and up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker pulled pork is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or sauces based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying leftovers at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone!