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Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for Perfect BBQ Sandwiches

Close-up of a juicy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork sandwich smothered in barbecue sauce on a white plate.
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Make tender, flavorful pulled pork with this simple slow cooker recipe. It is a great set and forget dinner perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 4-5 lb boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bottle (18 oz) of your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Place the pork shoulder into the basin of your slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  3. Pour the apple cider vinegar and water or broth around the pork in the slow cooker.
  4. Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  6. Shred the pork using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
  7. Pour the entire bottle of BBQ sauce over the shredded pork. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  8. Cook on the WARM setting for another 30 minutes to allow the sauce to heat through and absorb.
  9. Serve hot on hamburger buns for classic BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a pork butt cut. This cut has enough fat to keep the meat moist during the long cooking time.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the shredded pork, set it aside, and let the remaining liquid in the slow cooker simmer on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until it reduces slightly before mixing the sauce back in.
  • This easy slow cooker recipe freezes well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfleet.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork/