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Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for BBQ Sandwiches

A close-up of tender, shredded Slow Cooker Pulled Pork generously covered in rich, glossy BBQ sauce on a white plate.
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Make tender, flavorful pulled pork using your slow cooker. This set and forget recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family barbecue events.

Ingredients

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  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 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)
  • 1 1/2 cups your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Place the pork shoulder in the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork shoulder.
  4. Pour the water or broth and apple cider vinegar around the pork in the slow cooker.
  5. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meat and stir to coat completely.
  8. Cook on the warm setting for another 30 minutes to allow the meat to absorb the sauce.
  9. Serve hot on hamburger buns for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For best results, use a pork shoulder with good marbling.
  • This recipe is freezer friendly; store cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the shredded pork uncovered on high for the last 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbymia.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-recipe-easy/