This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is not only tender, but juicy and full of flavor. Since this pulled pork has been simmering all day in apple cider and BBQ juice, you just know that it is going to be good.
I think one of my favorite small kitchen appliances is my slow cooker. It’s so versatile. You can make breakfast, dinner, side dishes, and let’s not forget dessert.
You just pop your ingredients in, and you are good to go.
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Ingredients
In the recipe card at the bottom of the post, you will find all of the ingredients needed as well as the measurements that you will need.
- Boneless pork shoulder is such a great cut of meat and works great for pulled pork.
- Apple cider goes along perfectly with pork. When you add it to any recipe that uses pork, the acidity actually helps tenderize the pork.
- Whatever favorite BBQ sauce your family prefers works great.
Instructions
You will find complete instructions at the bottom of the post.
Substitutions
- Apple cider – you can use apple juice instead of cider. You will still get the taste you are looking for.
- Boneless pork shoulder – pork loin is really the best substitute for pork shoulder.
Variations
- Sauce – if your family isn’t a fan of BBQ sauce, why not try honey mustard? You could also try ketchup.
- Vegetables – jalapenos and bell peppers really add a nice kick to pulled pork.
- Spices – feel free to add some chili powder, paprika, or cumin to add a spicy kick.
Equipment
To make this recipe, all you need is a slow cooker, a knife, and a cutting board.
Storage
Refrigerator: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and place in the fridge. They will stay good for up to three days.
Freezer: You can freeze pulled pork. After it cools, place it into a freezer-safe container or bag and place in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheat: If you are using the pulled pork that has been in the freezer, place it in the fridge and let it thaw overnight. To reheat, place the amount you desire in a small saucepan on top of the stove and heat until it’s thoroughly warmed up. You may need to add some liquid to help it stay moist.
What sides go the best with this?
One of the great things about pulled pork is that so many things pare well with it. Some of our favorites are macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans.
Top tips
Always place any cut up pork skin side up in the slow cooker.
FAQ
What is the best meat to make pulled pork with?
Can pulled pork be made ahead of time?
Can pulled pork be overcooked?
What is the best meat to make pulled pork with?
Boneless pork shoulder is the best cut to use. It’s flavorful, is pretty forgiving to work with, and is usually pretty affordable.
Can pulled pork be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! I think it gives it a better flavor when everything has sat overnight in the fridge.
Can pulled pork be overcooked?
Yes, it can be. Even though pork needs to cook low and slow, it’s really easy to overcook it. If you can’t shred it or pull it apart easily, then you have overcooked it.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 3.5 pounds Boneless Pork Shoulder
- 3 cups apple cider
- 1 cup Barbeque sauce
- 2 apples washed peeled, cored, and cut into quarters.
- 4 carrots washed peeled, and thinly sliced
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- purple cabbage optional
- baby spinach optional
- 12 sturdy rolls
Directions
- Heat a large sized non-stick pan to medium heat. Once the pan is heated, add in the olive oil and sauté the onions until they are golden brown, stirring them regularly so they don’t burn.
- While the onions are cooking, whisk the apple cider and the BBQ sauce together in the slow cooker. Turn it to low or program it for low, 8 hours.
- When the onions are done, remove them and set to the side in a small bowl.
- Place the skillet back on the burner and turn the heat up to medium high. Place the pork shoulder into the skillet and sear (brown) the pork shoulder on all sides. Searing the pork helps to keep the juices inside of thepork.
- Once the pork has been seared, carefully set it into the slow cooker and in the liquids.
- Lay the cut apples, carrots, and sautéed onions on top of the meat.
- Place the cover on and cook for 6 to 8 hours until the pork is fall apart tender.
- Pull the pork apart in the slow cooker using two forks. You will also want to remove any large fat pieces.
- The carrots and apples should easily break down and mix nicely into everything.
- We turned this into sandwiches and enjoyed a bit of purple cabbage on top of the sandwich. This is optional though.
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