This pulled pork in a crock pot is super easy and tasty! Just throw in some pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, and let it cook slowly until it’s tender and juicy. Yum!
Nothing beats the smell of BBQ filling your house! I love making this for gatherings—people just can’t get enough of that flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
Best part? All I need is a bit of patience while it cooks away! I usually serve it on buns with coleslaw for the perfect meal. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it has enough fat to keep it tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you can use pork loin but watch the cooking time, as it can be drier.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a custom flavor. For a healthier option, opt for sugar-free sauces or those made with natural ingredients.
Chicken Broth: If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth. Water can work too, but it won’t add much flavor.
Brown Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can serve as a great substitute if you want a different sweetness profile. Adjust the quantity based on your taste.
Coleslaw: Feel free to make your coleslaw or buy pre-made. It adds a nice crunch! For a lighter option, try a vinegar-based slaw instead of a creamy one.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing the Pork Shoulder?
Searing the pork is an important step that adds flavor and texture. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Use a heavy skillet and heat the olive oil until it’s shimmering.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear one piece at a time if necessary.
- Brown the pork for 3-4 minutes on each side until a nice crust forms. This locks in flavors.
- Make sure to let the pork sit for a couple of minutes after searing to keep the juices in.
What’s the Best Way to Shred the Pork?
Shredding the cooked pork properly makes a huge difference in your pulled pork’s texture:
- Use two forks to pull the pork apart gently. Start with larger chunks and work your way down.
- If the pork is cool enough, you can use your hands—just be careful not to get burned!
- Mix the shredded pork back into the sauce in the crock pot before serving. This will keep it moist and full of flavor.
How to Make Pulled Pork Crock Pot with BBQ Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (for topping)
- Pickles (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 8 hours to cook if you’re using the low setting on your crock pot. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 4 hours instead. So whether you’re planning a day at home or a quick dinner, this meal is perfect!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork Shoulder:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. After browning, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This step adds great flavor to your pork!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The smell will be fantastic! This will give your pulled pork an extra layer of flavor.
3. Prepare the Sauce in the Crock Pot:
Now, grab your crock pot and combine the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This is the delicious sauce that will infuse your pork with flavor.
4. Add the Pork to the Crock Pot:
Place your seared pork shoulder into the crock pot. Make sure to coat it well with the sauce mixture so every bite will be flavorful.
5. Cook the Pork:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Your pork should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork when it’s done. You can use this time to relax or get other things done!
6. Shred the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully take the pork out of the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should come apart easily! Return the shredded pork back to the crock pot and stir it into the sauce. It will soak up all the delicious flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw for some crunch and drizzle on more BBQ sauce if you like it saucy. Serve with pickles on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your tasty pulled pork!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! You can use pork loin or pork tenderloin, but keep in mind that these cuts tend to be leaner and may not result in as juicy a pulled pork. If you choose a leaner cut, reduce the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! To convert this recipe for the Instant Pot, follow the same steps for searing and sautéing, but then add all ingredients to the pot and seal it. Cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes, and allow for a natural release. Ensure the pork is tender before shredding!
How Should I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
After the pulled pork has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you could blend ketchup with vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to create a quick homemade version. Alternatively, some people enjoy using teriyaki sauce or a mustard-based sauce for a different flavor twist!
