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Pulled pork on a hamburger bun topped with slaw

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Don't have time to stand over your pork roast while it cooks? This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is for you!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Southern US

Ingredients
  

  • 4-5 pounds pork shoulder also known as pork butt, bone-in or boneless
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for spiciness
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • Optional: hamburger buns or rolls for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the dry rub.
  • Rub the Pork: Rub the dry rub mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.
  • Slow Cooker Setup: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth or water around the pork. The liquid helps create steam and keeps the meat moist during cooking.
  • Slow Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model and the size of the pork.
  • Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any bones, fat, or excess liquid.
  • Add Barbecue Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded pork with the barbecue sauce until the meat is well coated. You can adjust the amount of sauce to your preference.
  • Warm the Pork: Return the sauced pork to the slow cooker and set it on the "warm" or "low" setting for an additional 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld further.
  • Serve: Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns or rolls, topped with additional barbecue sauce if desired. Coleslaw makes a great topping for added texture and flavor.
  • Enjoy: Your slow cooker pulled pork is now ready to enjoy. Serve it as a main dish at your family reunion or any gathering.

Notes

This slow cooker pulled pork recipe offers a convenient way to prepare a flavorful and tender dish that's a hit at Southern gatherings and beyond.
Keyword BBQ, Cookout, Picnic Food, Pork, Sandwiches