If you’ve been craving the ultimate comfort food, this pulled pork recipe is exactly what you need. Slow-cooked to perfection, it delivers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. A classic in American barbecue culture, pulled pork has made its way into kitchens worldwide, beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Whether you serve it in sandwiches, alongside coleslaw, or with cornbread, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Pulled Pork Recipe
- Foolproof & beginner-friendly – minimal prep, the slow cooker or oven does most of the work.
- Packed with flavor – juicy pork infused with smoky spices and tangy BBQ sauce.
- Feeds a crowd – perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep.
- Versatile – enjoy it in tacos, sliders, rice bowls, or classic sandwiches.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Pulled Pork Recipe
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork shoulder (or pork butt) – the star of the dish, full of fat and marbling that creates tender, juicy meat when slow-cooked.
- Dry spice rub – a blend of paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and chili powder for smoky-sweet seasoning.
- BBQ sauce – adds a tangy, rich glaze that perfectly complements the pulled pork’s savory depth.
- Onions & garlic – boost flavor while keeping the pork moist during cooking.
- Apple cider vinegar or broth – helps tenderize the pork and balance richness with a hint of acidity.
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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pulled Pork Recipe
- Prepare the pork – Trim excess fat, then rub generously with your spice blend.
- Sear (optional but recommended) – Brown the pork on all sides in a skillet for extra flavor.
- Slow cook – Place pork, onions, garlic, and liquid (vinegar or broth) in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Cook on low for 8–10 hours until tender.
- Shred – Use two forks to pull apart the pork into juicy strands.
- Add BBQ sauce – Stir in your favorite barbecue sauce and let it soak for 15 minutes.
- Serve & enjoy – Pile onto buns, serve with coleslaw, or pair with cornbread for a Southern classic.
💡 Expert Tip: For crispy edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet, drizzle with BBQ sauce, and broil for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy – Add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the rub or sauce.
- Go sweeter – Mix honey or extra brown sugar into the BBQ sauce for a caramelized flavor.
- Low-carb option – Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Instant Pot method – Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then quick release.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – Pulled pork freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in portioned bags for easy reheating.
- Reheat – Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or BBQ sauce to keep it juicy.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this pulled pork recipe, you’ll also love these comforting and flavor-packed dishes:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What cut of meat is best for pulled pork?
A: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt or Boston butt) is the most flavorful and tender choice.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Use a Dutch oven in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 hours until fork-tender.
Q: How do I keep pulled pork from drying out?
A: Add extra BBQ sauce or broth when reheating and cover tightly to lock in moisture.
Q: Can I make pulled pork ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
This pulled pork recipe is smoky, tender, and packed with flavor — a dish you’ll make again and again. Whether for game day, family dinner, or meal prep, it’s always a hit. Try it out, share it with friends, and don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you served your pulled pork!
Pulled Pork Recipe
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder or pork butt – tender, juicy cut ideal for shredding
- Dry spice rub – paprika garlic, chili, and brown sugar blend
- Onions & garlic – add savory depth and aroma
- Apple cider vinegar or broth – keeps meat moist and tender
- BBQ sauce – tangy smoky finish for authentic flavor
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from pork and rub with seasoning.
- Optional: Sear pork in a hot skillet for richer flavor.
- Place pork, onions, garlic, and vinegar/broth in slow cooker or Dutch oven.
- Cook on low 8–10 hours (or oven 300°F for 4–5 hours).
- Shred pork with two forks.
- Mix in BBQ sauce and let it soak for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot in sandwiches, tacos, or with classic sides.