I’m so excited to share my favorite BBQ pulled pork shoulder recipe with you all today. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
The key to this recipe is the slow-cooked pork shoulder, which falls apart easily and is infused with the rich flavors of BBQ sauce. I love how the tangy sauce complements the smoky flavor of the pork, creating a truly delicious taste experience.
My kids always ask for this dish, and it’s a great way to get them to eat their veggies too – they love the crunchy slaw on top of the pulled pork! I’ve experimented with different types of BBQ sauce over the years, but I’ve found that a good quality Kansas City-style BBQ sauce is the best way to go.
It adds a deep, velvety texture to the dish that’s just irresistible. One thing I’ve noticed is that slow cooking really brings out the natural sweetness in the pork, which pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the BBQ sauce.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just throw all the ingredients in a crock pot and let it cook away while you’re busy with other things. This recipe is definitely a crowd-pleaser, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as we do!
BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder
4.8 from 716 votes
A slow-cooked pulled pork shoulder recipe with a rich and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for sandwiches or served with sides.
1Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
2Coat the pork evenly with the spices, ensuring all sides are covered.
3Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
4Cook the pork on high for 4 hours.
5After 4 hours, check the pork for tenderness.
6It should be easily shreddable with a fork.
7If it is not yet tender, continue cooking for another 1-2 hours.
8While the pork is cooking, prepare the BBQ sauce.
9In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and black pepper.
10Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
11Once the pork is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
12Use two forks to shred the pork into small, bite-sized pieces.
13Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce over it.
14Stir gently to combine the pork and sauce.
15Reduce the slow cooker to low and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips: Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw and pickles for a classic BBQ sandwich. You can also store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder Works
This BBQ pulled pork shoulder recipe is always a hit with my family and friends – it’s perfect for any occasion! One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be stored and reheated – simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers and reheat when needed.
When serving leftovers, consider adding some new toppings like diced onions or pickles to give it an extra boost of flavor. This dish is also incredibly versatile – serve it as part of a larger meal or use it as filling for tacos or sandwiches.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder
Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?
A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use a pork shoulder with some fat on it – this will help keep the meat moist during cooking. Look for a shoulder that’s about 2-3 pounds in weight.
Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder instead?
A: While boneless pork shoulder will work in this recipe, I highly recommend using a bone-in shoulder if possible. The bone helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor to the dish.
Q: How long should I cook the pork for?
A: Cook the pork on low for at least 8 hours or overnight on high – this will ensure that it’s tender and falls apart easily.
Q: What if I don’t have a crock pot?
A: If you don’t have a crock pot, you can still make this recipe using your oven or stove top – just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For oven cooking, cover the dish with foil and bake at 275°F (135°C) for about 6-8 hours.
Q: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
A: While store-bought BBQ sauce can be convenient, I highly recommend making your own using a good quality BBQ sauce mix or starting from scratch. It makes such a big difference in flavor!
Q: How do I serve this dish?
A: Serve this dish on a bun or as part of a larger meal with your favorite sides – such as coleslaw, baked beans, or roasted vegetables.
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