Why make this recipe
Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork is a fantastic dish that brings together tender, flavorful meat and a rich BBQ sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while the pork cooks to perfection. Plus, the leftovers are just as good, making it a great meal prep option!
How to make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Trim excess fat from your pork shoulder, then season it generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- If desired, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of your Crockpot, followed by the minced garlic.
- Place the pork shoulder on top, then pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce, ensuring the pork is well-coated.
- Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to cook for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Mix it with the remaining sauce in the pot for extra flavor.
- Serve on toasted buns with additional BBQ sauce, coleslaw, or your favorite toppings.
How to serve Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork is best served on toasted buns for a delicious sandwich. You can add extra BBQ sauce, coleslaw, pickles, or any toppings you enjoy. This dish also pairs well with sides like potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob.
How to store Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
To store leftovers, allow the pulled pork to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
- Searing the pork before cooking can enhance the flavor, but it’s optional.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce for your preferred level of sweetness or spice.
- For extra tenderness, let the pork cook a little longer if it’s still tough after the initial cooking time.
- Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for more depth of flavor.
Variation
You can experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor or even try adding a splash of hot sauce for some heat. For a twist, use a different type of meat like chicken or beef.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as pork loin or chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long can I keep the leftovers?
Stored properly in the fridge, the leftovers will last about 3-4 days. They can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook the pork shoulder in a large pot or Dutch oven on low heat, but the cooking time will be shorter than in a Crockpot. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork
Ingredients
Method
- Trim excess fat from your pork shoulder, then season it generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- If desired, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of your Crockpot, followed by the minced garlic.
- Place the pork shoulder on top, then pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce, ensuring the pork is well-coated.
- Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to cook for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Mix it with the remaining sauce in the pot for extra flavor.
- Serve on toasted buns with additional BBQ sauce, coleslaw, or your favorite toppings.
