Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork
Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some for flavor. Rub it generously with a spice mix of paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker
Place sliced onions and garlic on the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the pork shoulder on top. Pour in apple cider vinegar (or broth) and a little BBQ sauce to help start the flavor infusion.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the pork is so tender it practically falls apart with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork
Transfer the pork to a cutting board and shred it using two forks. Remove any large pieces of fat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker.
5. Add BBQ Sauce
Stir in your favorite BBQ sauce, letting the pork soak up all that smoky-sweet flavor. Keep it on “warm” until ready to serve.
How to Serve Pulled Pork
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Classic Sandwiches: Pile high on toasted buns, topped with coleslaw for crunch.
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Tacos or Wraps: Spoon into tortillas with pickled onions and jalapeños.
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Loaded Fries or Nachos: Layer over crispy fries or chips, then drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and cheese.
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Bowl Style: Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or even mac and cheese.
Tips for Success
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Choose pork shoulder or butt for the best texture — lean cuts dry out too quickly.
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Don’t skimp on seasoning — a well-rubbed pork makes all the difference.
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For extra smoky flavor, stir in a little liquid smoke or use a smoked paprika in the spice rub.
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Leftovers freeze beautifully — store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce is one of those recipes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few minutes of prep and a little patience, you’ll end up with tender, juicy pork that can feed a crowd or make weeknight dinners extra special.
Once you make it, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen — versatile, satisfying, and endlessly delicious.
