The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: Tender, Juicy, and Perfect for Family Meals
Picture this: a warm, hearty meal waiting for you at the end of a busy day. With this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe, dinner becomes effortless, and your family will be coming back for seconds. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or prepping for a fun weekend gathering, this juicy, flavorful pulled pork is just what you need.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe
Busy life? No problem! This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is the definition of easy, hands-off cooking. Let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. It’s perfect for those of us juggling work, school, and family time, but still wanting a delicious, home-cooked meal. Imagine coming home to a tender, mouth-watering pulled pork ready for sandwiches, tacos, or served with a side of crispy coleslaw. Now, that’s the kind of meal that makes everyone happy!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Your favorite BBQ sauce (optional)
Preparation:
- Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until golden brown (about 4 minutes per side). This step adds depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, feel free to skip it and go straight to the slow cooker. - Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork shoulder to your slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to combine everything around the pork. - Cook on Low:
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and can easily be shredded with two forks. The longer you cook it, the more tender and flavorful it gets! - Shred and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the pulled pork to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. For an extra touch, stir in some BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky finish.
Time Involved:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours (low and slow)
- Total Time: Approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 275
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Side Dish Suggestions:
This slow cooker pulled pork is versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Coleslaw – A crunchy, creamy contrast to the savory pork.
- Corn on the Cob – A summer classic that complements the smoky flavors of the pork.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A sweet and crispy side that’s perfect for dipping in extra BBQ sauce.
- Macaroni and Cheese – Because what goes better with pulled pork than cheesy, comforting mac and cheese?
- Pickles – For a tangy, refreshing crunch on the side.
Tips for Beginners:
- Slow Cooker Size: Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit the pork shoulder. If you’re using a 3 lb roast, a 4-6 quart slow cooker should work fine.
- Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the spices to make it your own. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or a splash of liquid smoke for extra flavor.
- Freezing: This pulled pork freezes beautifully! Make extra and freeze portions for a future easy meal.
Ready for a Family Favorite?
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll make your dinner routine so much easier. Imagine serving this tender, flavorful pork at your next family gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home with the whole family around the table. The convenience of using a slow cooker means less stress and more time to enjoy the important moments.
For more delicious and easy slow cooker pork recipes, check out 35 Slow Cooker Pork Recipes by Jean Pardue. Get your copy on Amazon here: 35 Slow Cooker Pork Recipes.
Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of slow cooker cooking – your taste buds and your family will thank you!
