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Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for Perfect BBQ Sandwiches

Close-up of tender, shredded Slow cooker pulled pork coated in a rich, dark sauce served in a white bowl.

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Make tender, flavorful pulled pork with this simple set and forget slow cooker pork shoulder recipe. It’s perfect for meal prep and family barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • Your favorite BBQ sauce, for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this liquid mixture over and around the pork in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  7. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in about 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce or enough to coat the meat to your liking. Let it sit on the warm setting for 15 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve your easy slow cooker pulled pork on buns for delicious BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a pork shoulder with a good fat cap; the fat renders down and keeps the meat moist.
  • This crockpot pulled pork freezes well. Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. This makes great freezer friendly dinners.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the shredded pork, turn the slow cooker to high, and let the remaining liquid reduce for 20-30 minutes before mixing it back in.

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