How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
1. Prepare the Pork
Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some for flavor and moisture. Rub the pork with paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning blend helps build depth as the pork cooks.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker
Place sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. They create a flavorful base and help keep the meat elevated slightly, ensuring even cooking. Place the seasoned pork on top, then sprinkle the minced garlic over it.
3. Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) to keep everything moist during the cooking process. Drizzle half of the BBQ sauce over the top of the pork, saving the rest for later.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, depending on your schedule. The pork is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred it into tender strands. Discard large pieces of fat.
6. Finish with Sauce
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Add the remaining BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar (if using), then stir everything together. Let it cook on LOW for another 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork
Choose pork shoulder for the most tender, flavorful results—it’s naturally marbled and perfect for slow cooking.
Avoid lifting the lid while cooking; the trapped moisture is key to tenderness.
Customize the spice blend by adding cayenne, cumin, or smoked paprika.
Toast your buns if you're serving it as sandwiches—this prevents sogginess and adds a great crunch.
Serving Ideas
On soft brioche buns with coleslaw
Over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
As a topping for nachos or tacos
Stuffed into quesadillas
With mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce is the kind of recipe that proves good food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and hands-off cooking, you get a deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you want comfort food without the stress. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.
