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Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for Perfect BBQ Sandwiches

Close-up of tender Slow cooker pulled pork generously topped with rich, dark BBQ sauce on a light plate.

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Make tender, flavorful pulled pork with this simple set and forget slow cooker pork recipe. It is great for meal prep and family barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
  5. Pour the chicken broth around the pork.
  6. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Discard any excess liquid from the slow cooker, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
  8. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  9. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce and the reserved cooking liquid over the meat.
  10. Stir well to coat the pork evenly. Cook on the warm setting for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  11. Serve hot on buns for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a bone-in pork shoulder.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar to the BBQ sauce mixture.
  • This slow cooker pulled pork freezes well for easy freezer friendly dinners. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

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