Slow-cooked pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together with its irresistible aroma and rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe transforms a simple pork shoulder into tender, juicy shreds of meat that practically melt in your mouth. Whether served on a bun or alongside classic sides, it’s always a hit.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a hearty sandwich piled high with tender pulled pork, tangy barbecue sauce, and crunchy coleslaw. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will have your guests raving about your cooking skills for days. And the best part? It requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
The Ultimate Pulled Pork Recipe
This slow-cooked pulled pork is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky flavor. The meat is seasoned with a blend of spices, slow-cooked to perfection, and can be easily shredded for sandwiches or served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder also known as pork butt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 cup barbecue sauce plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Buns and coleslaw for serving optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Season the Pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is well coated.
- Slow Cook: Place the pork in a slow cooker. Pour in the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve: Mix the shredded pork back into the juices in the slow cooker. Serve on buns with additional barbecue sauce and coleslaw if desired.
Notes
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g