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A close-up shot of a juicy crockpot pulled pork sandwich on a brioche bun with coleslaw on top.
FL Recipes

Crockpot Pulled Pork: The Juiciest, Easiest Recipe Ever

This crockpot pulled pork recipe is incredibly easy and yields the most tender, juicy, and flavorful results. Made with a simple spice rub and your favorite BBQ sauce, it's a set-it-and-forget-it meal perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 4-5 pound pork shoulder (Boston butt) bone-in or boneless
  • 1 large yellow onion thickly sliced
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional, but recommended
  • 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce plus more for serving

Equipment

  • 1 Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
  • 1 Small mixing bowl
  • 2 Forks (for shredding)
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Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
  2. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture generously over all sides of the pork, pressing it into the meat.
  3. Scatter the sliced onion across the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
  4. Pour the apple cider vinegar and liquid smoke over the pork.
  5. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The pork is done when it falls apart easily with a fork.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a large cutting board or in a bowl. Let it rest for 10 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
  7. Skim any excess fat from the juices left in the crockpot. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce and stir to combine. Let it warm through for another 10-15 minutes, then serve hot on buns.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 30gFat: 28gFiber: 1g

Notes

Searing Tip: For an extra layer of deep, savory flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a hot, oiled skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Keyword crockpot pulled pork,pork shoulder recipe,slow cooker pulled pork

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