Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

If you love the deliciousness of pulled pork, then my Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is a must-try! Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in, this recipe delivers tender, juicy pork infused with tangy BBQ sauce. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll find this dish to be a standout at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herb seasoning, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on buns for sandwiches, alongside coleslaw, or over rice—this pulled pork fits perfectly into any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With enough servings for a large group, it’s ideal for parties, potlucks, or weeknight dinners with family.
• Leftover Friendly: Any leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These essential items will help make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It ensures even cooking and keeps the pork tender through long hours of heat.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your pork reaches the perfect internal temperature for safety and tenderness.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your sauces and seasonings before they meet the pork.

Ingredients

For the Pork

• 3 pound boneless pork shoulder
• 2 tablespoons herb and garlic seasoning

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

1. Rub the boneless pork shoulder generously with herb and garlic seasoning. Ensure it’s evenly coated to enhance flavor during cooking.
2. Place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir well until mixed thoroughly.
2. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 205 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly tender meat.

Step 4: Shred the Pork

1. Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon.
2. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Add Juices Back

1. Add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of cooking juices back into the shredded pork to keep it moist. Discard any remaining juices.

Step 6: Serve

1. For extra flavor, mix in additional BBQ sauce if desired.
2. Serve warm on buns or alongside your favorite sides!

Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork!

How to Serve Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Serving Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is a delightful experience that brings friends and family together. The juicy, flavorful pulled pork pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it a versatile dish for any gathering.

Sandwiches

• Classic Sliders: Serve the pulled pork on soft slider buns topped with coleslaw for a delicious twist.
• Texas Toast: Use thick slices of Texas toast to create hearty sandwiches that can hold all that juicy goodness.

Tacos

• Pulled Pork Tacos: Fill warm corn tortillas with pulled pork and top with diced onions and cilantro for a fresh flavor.
• BBQ Taco Bowls: Layer pulled pork over rice or quinoa, adding beans, corn, and avocado for a satisfying meal.

Salads

• Pulled Pork Salad: Toss the shredded pork with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a lighter meal option.
• BBQ Chicken Salad: Combine pulled pork with shredded chicken on a bed of romaine, drizzled with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Nachos

• BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with cheese, pulled pork, jalapeños, and bake until melted.

Baked Potatoes

• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with pulled pork, cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a filling dish.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

To achieve the best results when making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out tender and full of flavor every time.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled boneless pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the herb and garlic seasoning; it enhances the overall taste of the pork.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for longer yields more tender meat. Aim for 8-10 hours on low.
• Rest Before Shredding: Allow the pork to rest after cooking; this helps retain juices when shredding.
• Save the Juices: Adding some cooking juices back into the shredded pork keeps it moist and flavorful.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to customize your BBQ sauce by mixing in different flavors like honey or mustard.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Pairing delicious side dishes with your Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement the rich flavors of the dish.

1. Coleslaw: A classic pairing, this crunchy salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pork.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up excess BBQ sauce while adding a comforting touch.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit; its cheesy goodness complements the savory flavors of pulled pork.
4. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans provide an excellent contrast to the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add a healthy touch to your plate while still being tasty alongside pulled pork.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad brings brightness and texture that works well with hot pulled pork sandwiches.
7. Pickles: Serve dill pickles on the side for a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat.
8. French Fries: Crispy fries make for a fun side dish when piled high with pulled pork and extra toppings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, avoiding common mistakes ensures a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the pork can lead to bland flavor. Always rub your meat with seasoning to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the cooker too much prevents even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam circulation.
• Not shredding correctly: Failing to shred the pork properly can leave large chunks. Use two forks to pull apart the meat for better texture.
• Ignoring cook times: Cooking on high for too long or low for too short can affect tenderness. Stick to recommended times for perfect results.
• Neglecting to save juices: Discarding all cooking juices means losing flavor. Use some of the juices when shredding for added moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place pulled pork in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, stirring until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork:

Can I use other cuts of meat?

You can use cuts like pork loin or shoulder. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when the pork is done?

The ideal internal temperature is 205°F for tender shredding. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding onions and peppers can enhance flavor. Just place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different sauces or spices based on your preference. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, so give it a try!