slow cooker texas pulled pork recipe

slow cooker texas pulled pork recipe

The Best slow cooker texas pulled pork recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – slow cooker Texas pulled pork. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a big family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to impress.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me as the cook. Just throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, we have a delicious, fall-apart tender meal that everyone loves.

I’ve tried many different pulled pork recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to because of its simplicity and flavor. My kids love helping me mix together the spices and herbs that give this dish its unique taste. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for busy families like mine who need a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal option.

As for where this dish comes from, I can only assume it’s rooted in traditional Texas barbecue, where slow-cooked meats are king. The combination of tender pork, tangy barbecue sauce, and the subtle kick of spices is a match made in heaven. I’ve experimented with different types of pork cuts over the years, but I find that using a boneless pork shoulder works best for this recipe.

One thing that sets this recipe apart from others is the use of brown sugar in the spice blend. It adds a depth of flavor that complements the smoky taste of the barbecue sauce perfectly. When it comes to serving this dish, I love serving it on a bun with all the fixings – coleslaw, pickles, and even some crispy onion rings if we’re feeling fancy.

Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork

4.7 from 880 votes

This slow cooker Texas pulled pork is seasoned with a bold dry rub and slow-cooked until fork-tender. The meat is then shredded and tossed with a tangy barbecue sauce for a classic sandwich filling.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

4 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup chicken broth

For the Sauce

1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

8 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
2Rub this dry rub all over the pork shoulder, pressing it into the meat on all sides.
3Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
4Pour 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup chicken broth around the pork, not over the top to keep the rub in place.
5Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
6About 30 minutes before the pork is done, make the sauce.
7In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups ketchup, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
8Stir and bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
9Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
10Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
11Discard the cooking liquid from the slow cooker.
12Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and pour the prepared sauce over the top.
13Stir to coat the meat evenly.
14Cover and cook on low for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the sauce is hot and the flavors meld.
15Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
16The meat should be moist and flavorful with a slight tang from the sauce.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Small bowl
Medium saucepan
Two forks
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a smokier flavor, add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid. Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork Works

This slow cooker Texas pulled pork recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re having friends over or just need a quick weeknight dinner. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me as the cook. And let me tell you, my family loves it just as much as I do!

For storage ideas, simply refrigerate or freeze leftover pulled pork until needed – just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork

Q: What type of pork should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a boneless pork shoulder or butt cut. It’s usually labeled as ‘pork shoulder’ at your local grocery store. You can also ask your butcher to cut it into smaller pieces if you prefer.

Q: Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce?

A: While I prefer using Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce for its thick consistency and tangy flavor, you can definitely experiment with other brands or homemade sauces if you prefer.

Q: How long does it take to cook the pork in the slow cooker?

A: This recipe calls for cooking the pork on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can adjust the cooking time based on your schedule and personal preference.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook them.

Q: How do I reheat leftover pulled pork?

A: To reheat leftover pulled pork, simply place it back in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze cooked pulled pork?

A: Yes! Cooked pulled pork freezes beautifully. Simply store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and thaw when needed.

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