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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Close-up of a bowl filled with tender, shredded slow cooker pulled pork coated in rich BBQ sauce.

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A simple recipe for tender, shreddable pulled pork made in a slow cooker, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 4–5 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your spice rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or in a large bowl.
  8. Using two forks, shred the pork.
  9. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss with the cooking liquid. You can also mix in additional BBQ sauce if desired.
  10. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For meal prep, shred the pork and store it in individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer.
  • This pulled pork is excellent for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
  • You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork and simmer the liquid in the slow cooker on high with the lid off for about 15-20 minutes.

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