crock pot root beer pulled pork recipe

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

The Best crock pot root beer pulled pork recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: crock pot root beer pulled pork. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

I remember the first time I made this recipe, I was amazed at how tender and flavorful the pork was after slow-cooking it in the crock pot all day. My kids were equally impressed, and they still ask for it to this day.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just throw all the ingredients into the crock pot and let it do its magic. As a busy mom, I appreciate recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, but still pack a punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition.

This recipe fits the bill perfectly. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to get in some extra veggies and protein without even realizing it.

My kids love helping me with this recipe, too – they love putting together all the fixings and toppings like coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce. It’s become a fun family tradition that we all look forward to every week.

Crock Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

4.6 from 587 votes

This easy pulled pork recipe uses root beer to tenderize the meat and create a sweet, tangy flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in juicy, shreddable pork perfect for sandwiches.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

4 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
1 (12 ounce) can root beer (not diet)
1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 hamburger buns, for serving

For the Coleslaw (optional)

3 cups shredded coleslaw mix
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2Pour the root beer over the pork, ensuring it is mostly submerged.
3Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds when pierced with a fork.
4Carefully transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board.
5Discard the cooking liquid from the slow cooker.
6Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, removing any large pieces of fat.
7Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
8Add the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
9Stir well to combine.
10Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and the flavors have melded.
11If making coleslaw, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
12Add the coleslaw mix and toss to coat.
13Refrigerate until ready to serve.
14Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with additional barbecue sauce and coleslaw if desired.
15The pork should be hot and saucy, with a rich, sweet-savory flavor.

🔧Equipment

6-quart or larger slow cooker
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Two forks for shredding
Measuring cups and spoons
Large bowl (for coleslaw, if making)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the pulled pork during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Diet root beer will not provide the same sweetness or tenderizing effect. Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Works

I always say that life is better with pulled pork involved – and this crock pot root beer pulled pork recipe is no exception. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just want something easy for dinner tonight, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time – just throw all the ingredients into the crock pot and let it do its magic.

And don’t even get me started on how delicious it tastes – sweet from the root beer and tangy from the barbecue sauce.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

1.

Q: What is the best type of root beer to use in this recipe?
A: I prefer to use a craft or small-batch root beer for this recipe, as it has a more robust flavor profile than mass-produced brands. However, feel free to use whatever brand you like best – just be sure to choose one that’s low in sugar and calories if you’re watching your diet.

2.

Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder instead of bone-in pork shoulder?
A: While you can use boneless pork shoulder if that’s what you have on hand, keep in mind that it may not be as tender or juicy as bone-in pork shoulder. Bone-in pork shoulder has more connective tissue, which breaks down during slow-cooking and makes the meat incredibly tender.

3.

Q: How long can I store leftover pulled pork in the fridge?
A: You can store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, then serve on a bun or with some crusty bread.

4.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a crock pot?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot! Simply brown the pork shoulder in a skillet before adding all the ingredients to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally before serving.

5.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as written – just be sure to choose a gluten-free barbecue sauce if you’re using one.

Similar Posts