Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
This classic recipe delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful BBQ pulled pork made with just a few ingredients and minimal effort—thanks to the slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day!
Ingredients:
-
3 to 4 pounds of pork shoulder or pork butt (bone-in or boneless)
-
1 bottle (18 ounces) of your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, spicy, smoky—your choice!)
-
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
-
Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
-
Buns, rice, or coleslaw, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onion into thin rings or half-moons. This will form the base of the slow cooker, adding a layer of flavor and keeping the pork moist.
If desired, pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season it lightly with salt and black pepper. Some people also add a dry rub of paprika, garlic powder, or brown sugar for added depth, but this is optional since the BBQ sauce adds plenty of flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Onions
Place the sliced onions evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. These will serve two purposes:
-
They add a sweet, mellow flavor as they cook down.
-
They act as a cushion, preventing the pork from sticking or burning.
Step 3: Add the Pork Shoulder
Place the pork shoulder or pork butt on top of the onions. If the piece is too large, you can cut it in half to fit. Make sure the meat sits comfortably in the cooker without touching the lid.
Step 4: Pour Over the BBQ Sauce
Take your favorite BBQ sauce and pour it evenly over the pork. Make sure the meat is well coated. You can use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce around and help it seep down between the onions and meat.
If you like a saucier pulled pork, feel free to use a little extra sauce—up to 24 ounces. The sauce will thin out slightly as the pork releases juices during cooking.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to:
-
Low for 8 hours (best for most tender results), or
-
High for 4 to 5 hours (faster, but still tender)
During this time, the pork will slowly break down and become easy to shred. Resist the urge to open the lid while cooking, as it releases heat and slows the process.
Step 6: Shred the Pork
Once the pork is done, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. The meat should pull apart easily. Mix the shredded pork thoroughly with the cooked onions and BBQ sauce to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a splash more BBQ sauce if you prefer it saucier.
How to Serve:
-
On Buns: Serve on toasted sandwich buns or hamburger rolls for the ultimate pulled pork sandwich.
-
Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: A comforting meal with a Southern twist.
-
With Coleslaw: Add a cool, crunchy contrast by topping your sandwich with creamy coleslaw.
-
As a Taco or Wrap Filling: Great for leftovers!
Storage Tips:
-
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth slow cooker BBQ pulled pork!