Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a melt-in-your-mouth dish that requires minimal hands-on time but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for family dinners, backyard BBQs, or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder also called pork butt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce 240ml
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 60ml
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
- Rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne (if using) to ensure it’s well-seasoned on all sides.
Searing
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Cooking
- Place the sliced onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seared pork on top, then pour in the apple cider vinegar and BBQ sauce.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
Finishing
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the juices and sauce.
- Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke to the slow cooker. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or BBQ sauce. You can also use the leftover pulled pork in sandwiches, tacos, or as a pizza topping.