This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin is a game changer! The pork becomes super tender and juicy, soaking up all that smoky BBQ flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make—just toss it in and let the slow cooker do its magic!
Honestly, the smell while it’s cooking makes you feel like a kitchen superstar. I love serving it on buns with slaw for added crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone enjoys! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, pork shoulder works too; it’s fattier and will be very tender after cooking.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own! If you need a healthier option, try a sugar-free barbecue sauce or a homemade version with honey and tomato paste for sweetness.
Onion: Yellow onions are best for their sweetness, but white or red onions can also work. They bring flavor to the dish, so try not to skip them!
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a smoky flavor without needing a grill. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder could be substituted, but the taste will change a bit.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This brightens up the sauce. If you don’t have it, try white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tang.
How Can You Ensure the Meat is Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender pulled pork is to slow cook it properly. Make sure to cook it on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This long cooking time allows the fat in the pork to melt and the muscle fibers to break down, making the meat easy to shred.
- Layer your sliced onions at the bottom to help create a flavorful base.
- Coat the pork with the sauce mixture well, but don’t worry if it doesn’t completely cover; it will cook down.
- After cooking, shred the pork while it’s still warm using two forks. This helps keep the meat juicy as you mix it back with the sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pulled Pork:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite or homemade)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- 8 hamburger buns
- Pickles (optional)
- Coleslaw (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouthwatering pulled pork recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours. Just set it and forget it! You’ll have tender, flavorful pulled pork ready to serve by dinnertime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker Base:
Start by placing the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will give the pork a tasty base to cook on and keep it from sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous), and apple cider vinegar. Stir it well so that all the ingredients come together nicely.
3. Coat the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and rub some of the barbecue sauce mixture all over it, making sure it’s evenly coated. This step adds flavor right from the start!
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the coated pork tenderloin on top of the sliced onions in the slow cooker. Then, pour the remaining barbecue sauce mixture over the pork. It’s going to be delicious!
5. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The pork will become tender and juicy—perfect for shredding.
6. Shred the Pork:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should come apart easily! Then, return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining sauce for extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns. Feel free to top it with pickles and coleslaw if you like. Now dig in and enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can use pork shoulder or pork butt instead. These cuts are more marbled and will still yield a tender, flavorful dish. Just keep in mind they may take a little longer to cook, so aim for 8 to 10 hours on low heat.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute with regular paprika or even a combination of regular paprika and a pinch of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Adjust the quantity to your taste; start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded pulled pork in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you are ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time! Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just plug in the slow cooker and let it cook throughout the day. Perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep!
