Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork is a must-try for anyone who loves tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. This dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or even weeknight dinners. The slow cooking process ensures the pork becomes incredibly juicy, while the homemade BBQ sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor. Plus, it’s an excellent recipe for making in large batches – ideal for freezing and enjoying later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply season the pork and let your slow cooker do all the work.
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of spices and homemade BBQ sauce creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe easily serves 12 to 20 people, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for quick meals later on.
• Versatile Usage: Serve it on buns, with sides, or use it as a pizza topping – the possibilities are endless!

Tools and Preparation

To make your easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork, having the right tools is essential. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Basting brush
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking that results in perfectly tender pulled pork.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your rub ingredients before seasoning the meat.
• Basting brush: Use this to apply sauce or other liquids to keep your pork moist while it cooks.

Ingredients

For the Pork

• 3.5-4.5kg/ 5-7lb pork butt / pork shoulder (bone in, fat cap on)
• 1 cup beer (or apple cider/apple juice)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp mustard powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cups tomato ketchup (or Aussie tomato sauce)
• 1 cup water (or use remaining beer!)
• 3 tbsp molasses (original, not blackstrap)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 4 tsp mustard powder
• 3 tsp garlic powder
• 4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp Tabasco (or cayenne pepper, optional for spiciness)

How to Make Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

Step 1: Prepare the Rub

1. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika powder, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pork

1. Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker.
2. Pour beer over the top of the pork to add moisture and flavor.
3. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low heat.
4. Cook for about 10 hours or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

This easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy it with your favorite sides or on a bun for delicious sandwiches!

How to Serve Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

Serving Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork can be a delightful experience for you and your guests. There are various creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish, making it perfect for any occasion.

On a Bun

• Classic Pulled Pork Sandwich: Serve the pulled pork on a toasted bun, topped with creamy coleslaw for crunch.
• BBQ Sliders: Use small slider buns for bite-sized portions, great for parties.

With Sides

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the richness of the pork, balancing flavors.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the smoky taste of the BBQ pulled pork.

As a Main Dish

• Taco Style: Serve in corn tortillas with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.
• Over Rice: Spoon the pulled pork over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.

In Wraps

• Pulled Pork Wraps: Wrap in tortillas with cheese and veggies for an easy lunch option.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use lettuce leaves to wrap the pork along with your favorite toppings.

How to Perfect Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

To make your Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork even better, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose the Right Cut: Using pork shoulder or butt ensures tenderness and flavor due to its fat content.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the spice rub; it creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking on low heat helps break down tough muscle fibers, resulting in tender meat that’s easy to shred.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked meat to sit for a few minutes before shredding lets juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Use Quality BBQ Sauce: Homemade or your favorite brand of BBQ sauce can elevate flavors dramatically.
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste and adjust spices or acidity before serving to ensure every bite is delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

Pairing side dishes with your Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans provide a delightful contrast to the smoky pulled pork.
2. Cornbread: This classic Southern staple adds a touch of sweetness and pairs well with BBQ flavors.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser that balances the richness of the meat.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Freshly grilled vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate, enhancing texture.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern delicacy offers a crispy bite that contrasts nicely with tender pulled pork.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the meat, providing a refreshing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork, it’s crucial to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the Rub: Not applying the spice rub properly can lead to bland pork. Make sure to rub the spices all over the meat for maximum flavor.
• Choosing the Wrong Cut: Using lean cuts instead of pork shoulder can result in dry meat. Always opt for a well-marbled pork butt or shoulder for tenderness.
• Overcooking or Under-cooking: Cooking for too short a time can leave the pork tough, while overcooking can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking time for best results.
• Ignoring Liquid Levels: Not adding enough liquid might result in burnt edges. Ensure there’s enough beer or broth in your slow cooker to keep things moist.
• Rushing the Shredding: Trying to shred the pork before it’s fully cooked can be frustrating. Wait until it’s tender and can easily pull apart with forks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of meat for Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork?

The best cuts are pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to become tender when cooked slowly.

Can I use any type of liquid instead of beer?

Yes! You can substitute with apple cider or apple juice for a sweeter flavor profile.

How do I know when my pulled pork is done?

It should be fork-tender and easily shredded. This usually takes about 10 hours on low in your slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork is great for meal prep and can be made a day or two in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Easy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying leftovers, you can customize it with your favorite sauces or toppings. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; it’s sure to impress!

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Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

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• Author: Camila
• Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, a dish that combines simplicity and flavor. Perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to game day gatherings—this recipe yields tender, juicy pork infused with a homemade BBQ sauce that packs a punch. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the tantalizing aroma filling your home. Whether served on toasted buns with coleslaw or as a hearty taco filling, this versatile dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, you can easily make it in large batches for meal prep or freezing, ensuring you always have a tasty option on hand!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3.5–4.5 kg (5–7 lb) pork shoulder
• 1 cup beer (or apple cider/apple juice)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cups tomato ketchup
• 1 cup water (or use remaining beer!)
• 3 tbsp molasses (original, not blackstrap)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 4 tsp mustard powder
• 3 tsp garlic powder
• 4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp Tabasco (or cayenne pepper, optional for spiciness)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar and spices to create the rub. Rub generously over the pork shoulder.
2. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and pour beer or other liquid over it.
3. Cover and cook on low for about 10 hours until fork-tender.
4. Shred the pork with forks and mix in homemade BBQ sauce before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 600 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or Tabasco to your BBQ sauce. Pair with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.