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Foolproof Crock Pot Pulled Pork: The Best Set and Forget Dinner

A close-up of shredded, saucy crock pot pulled pork piled high on a white plate, backlit by a window.
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Make incredibly tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork using your slow cooker. This easy recipe is perfect for meal prep, sandwiches, or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 4-5 lb pork shoulder (Boston Butt)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Trim off any large pieces of excess fat, leaving a thin layer for moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create your dry rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the basin of your slow cooker.
  5. Pour the chicken broth or apple cider vinegar around the pork, not over the top of the rub.
  6. Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  7. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it in a large bowl or on a cutting board. Discard any large pieces of fat remaining.
  8. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  9. Pour about half a cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker over the shredded pork to keep it moist.
  10. Stir in about 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce until the pork is coated to your liking. Add more liquid or sauce as needed for desired moisture.
  11. Serve immediately on buns for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches or use for meal prep protein.

Notes

  • For the juiciest results, aim for an internal temperature of 195–205°F before shredding, though checking with a fork is usually sufficient for the slow cooker method.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce coating, drain off most of the liquid from the slow cooker before adding the BBQ sauce.
  • This slow cooker pulled pork freezes very well for future meal prep protein needs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfleet.com/crock-pot-pulled-pork-recipe/