Description
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe offers tender, flavorful pork shoulder cooked slowly with a smoky spice rub and barbecue sauce. Perfect for an effortless meal, the pork becomes juicy and easy to shred, ideal for sandwiches or hearty sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Vegetables
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base that will infuse the pork as it cooks.
- Season the pork: Rub the pork shoulder evenly with smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to add a balanced smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor profile.
- Arrange the pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the bed of onions and garlic in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s well positioned for even cooking.
- Add sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the pork, coating it well to keep the meat moist and add rich flavor during cooking.
- Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the pork: Carefully remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks to create the classic pulled pork texture.
- Mix with sauce: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, stirring it thoroughly to combine with the remaining sauce and juices for maximum flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pulled pork hot on buns or alongside your favorite side dishes, like coleslaw or baked beans, for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
- Use a fatty cut of pork shoulder for best results and tender shredding.
- Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, warm slowly on the stovetop or in a microwave to retain moisture.
- Serving suggestions include coleslaw, pickles, baked beans, or cornbread.
