slow cooker barbecue pork recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best slow cooker barbecue pork recipe

I’ve been making this slow cooker barbecue pork recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. My kids love the tender and juicy pork, and I love how easy it is to prepare. The recipe is inspired by traditional Southern cuisine, where slow-cooked meats are a staple.

I’ve experimented with different seasonings and techniques over the years, but this recipe remains one of my favorites. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for me, so I can focus on other things while it cooks.

I’ve served this recipe at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a quick lunch. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I’m happy to share the recipe with you. The key to this recipe is letting the pork cook slowly in the crockpot, which makes it incredibly tender and flavorful.

You can serve it on its own or with some crusty bread or over rice. My kids love it when I serve it with some steamed vegetables on the side. I’ve also experimented with different types of barbecue sauce, but this one remains my favorite.

It’s got just the right balance of sweet and tangy flavors that complements the pork perfectly.

Slow Cooker Barbecue Pork

4.6 from 1721 votes

Tender, flavorful pork cooked low and slow in a rich barbecue sauce. Perfect for sandwiches or serving with sides.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

2 lb pork shoulder

For the Barbecue Sauce

1 cup ketchup
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

For Serving

4 hamburger buns
coleslaw
pickles

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
4Pour the sauce over the pork, ensuring it is well coated.
5Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
7Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8Skim the fat from the surface of the sauce and discard it.
9Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce until well coated.
10Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
11Serve the barbecue pork on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles.
12Enjoy your slow-cooked barbecue pork.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use a pork butt or pork loin instead of pork shoulder. For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.

This slow cooker barbecue pork recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. It’s easy to make ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

When reheating, simply place it back in the crockpot or oven until warmed through. You can also serve it as leftovers – just reheat in the microwave until hot and serve over rice or with some crusty bread.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Barbecue Pork

Q: What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using a thick and sweet barbecue sauce that’s made with molasses or brown sugar. This will give your pork a rich and caramelized flavor that’s perfect for slow-cooked meats.

Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder if you prefer. However, keep in mind that bone-in pork will retain more moisture and flavor during cooking.

Q: How long do I need to cook the pork in the slow cooker?

Cooking time will depend on the size of your pork shoulder and your personal preference for tenderness. As a general rule, cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker?

No, this recipe is best made in a slow cooker as it allows for even cooking and tenderization of the meat.

Q: Do I need to add any additional ingredients like onions or garlic?

No additional ingredients are necessary beyond what’s listed in this recipe. However, feel free to add some chopped onions or garlic if you like extra flavor.

Similar Posts