pork shoulder pulled pork recipe

The Best pork shoulder pulled pork recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you all, as it’s been a staple in our household for years. Pulled pork shoulder is a dish that originated in the Southern United States, where slow-cooked meat was a common practice.

The rich, tangy flavors of the pork are perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. My family and I just love it when I serve this recipe at family gatherings or on a casual weeknight dinner.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me, which is always a win in my book. The best part?

It’s made with just a few simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry – no special trips to the store required! My kids adore helping me shred the pork with two forks, and it’s become a fun little tradition for us to enjoy together.

As for me, I appreciate how this recipe can be adapted to suit any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a more formal gathering. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – pork shoulder is an excellent source of protein and can be easily paired with a variety of vegetables for added nutrition.

Plus, serving pulled pork shoulder is always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a party or just need a way to get everyone fed after a long day.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

4.8 from 576 votes

Tender, succulent pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe is ideal for sandwiches, tacos, or enjoying on its own.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

2.5 lb pork shoulder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the pork shoulder with salt and black pepper.
2Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
3Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4In a mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5Stir until well combined.
6Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
7Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
8Pour the sauce mixture over the shredded pork in the slow cooker.
9Stir until the pork is well coated in the sauce.
10Cover and let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Fork
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 13g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can add chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker while cooking the pork.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Works

This pulled pork shoulder recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one of your family’s favorites too. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients and can be served at any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick weeknight meal.

One thing I love about this recipe is that it reheats beautifully – simply place the leftovers in an oven-safe container and warm them up at 300°F (150°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

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

I recommend using a boneless pork shoulder for this recipe. You can also use other cuts of pork, such as a picnic ham or a butt roast, but keep in mind that they may have slightly different cooking times.

Q: How do I ensure that my pork stays tender?

The key to tender pulled pork is low and slow cooking. Make sure to cook the pork at a temperature of around 275°F (135°C) for at least 6 hours, or until it’s easily shredded with two forks.

Q: Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

While store-bought barbecue sauce can be convenient, I highly recommend making your own from scratch. It’s surprisingly easy and allows you to control the level of sweetness and spice.

Q: What if I don’t have time to let the pork cook all day?

No worries! You can speed up the cooking process by using your oven or even your slow cooker. Just keep an eye on the pork’s temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I serve pulled pork with other types of toppings?

Of course! Some popular topping options include diced onions, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and shredded lettuce. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings!

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