Savory Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork with Tangy Barbecue Sauce

Why This Pulled Pork Recipe is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a dish that combines convenience, flavor, and comfort, look no further than this Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family, this recipe delivers tender, juicy pork infused with a tangy barbecue sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The beauty of using a crock pot is that you can set it and forget it, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas while you go about your day. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served in a multitude of ways, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe arsenal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and prep time, you can easily whip this up without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfectly Tender: Slow cooking ensures that the pork becomes fall-apart tender and infused with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and sauce to cater to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients

• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (for added moisture)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for extra flavor)
• Coleslaw (for topping on sandwiches)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder. This helps prevent the dish from being too greasy.
2. Season the Meat: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot. Add the minced garlic on top, followed by the seasoned pork shoulder.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the pork. If using, add the broth and Worcestershire sauce for extra moisture and flavor.
5. Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it to low. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
6. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
7. Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the crock pot and mix it with the remaining sauce. Allow it to sit for an additional 30 minutes on low to absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some ideas:

• Sandwiches: Pile the pulled pork onto soft buns and top with coleslaw for a classic BBQ sandwich.
• Tacos: Fill corn or flour tortillas with pulled pork, avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a delicious taco night.
• Plated Dinner: Serve the pulled pork alongside cornbread, baked beans, and a green salad for a hearty meal.
• Wraps: Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create low-carb wraps filled with pulled pork and your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Slow cooking is essential for tender meat. Avoid the temptation to cook on high.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The pork should reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F for optimal shredding.
• Let it Rest: Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding to retain juices.
• Store Properly: Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices or sauces to suit your taste. Experimenting is part of the fun!

Final Thoughts

This Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe is not only easy and delicious but also a crowd-pleaser that will make you the star of any gathering. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s the perfect solution for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family feast and enjoy the compliments that come your way!