Why Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you think about BBQ recipes, slow cooker BBQ pulled pork should be at the top of your list. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience. The aroma fills your home, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation.
The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you can set it and forget it. After hours of low and slow cooking, you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy meat that practically falls apart.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it on buns, over rice, or with homemade bread. Trust me, this recipe will impress your friends and family every time!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
When it comes to making a delicious BBQ pulled pork, the ingredients are key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor. Luckily, the list isn’t too complicated, and you might already have some of these items hanging out in your pantry.
If you gather everything ahead of time, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying that tender, juicy goodness. So, let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients:
- 8 – 9 lbs pork shoulder
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 48 ounces spaghetti sauce (like Ragu)
- 2 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 3 medium yellow onions, coarsely chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped (optional, if you like garlic)
- 1 apple, peeled and coarsely chopped
- 6 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Now, if you’re anything like me, you might be staring at this list and wondering if you can substitute anything. That’s totally fair!
For example, if you don’t have chili powder, a mix of paprika and cumin can create a nice flavor too. And if you’re not a fan of vinegar, maybe try a splash of apple cider vinegar instead—it will still give you that tangy kick without being too overpowering.
Also, feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste. Cooking is all about experimentation, right?
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Alright, let’s explore the delicious world of making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork. First things first, you’ve got to give that beautiful 8 to 9-pound pork shoulder some love. Start by seasoning it with 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper. It’s like a little spice massage for your meat. If you want to kick things up a notch, consider doing this the night before and letting it marinate in the fridge. Trust me, your future self will thank you for that extra burst of flavor.
Once you’re ready to cook, grab your trusty 6 1/2 quart slow cooker, and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. Plop that seasoned pork shoulder right in there, and let’s get saucy.
In a mixing bowl, combine 48 ounces of spaghetti sauce (yep, the kind you might find in your pantry or fridge), 2 cups of firmly packed brown sugar, 1 1/2 cups of white vinegar, 3 coarsely chopped medium yellow onions, and if you’re feeling adventurous, 6 chopped garlic cloves. Oh, and don’t forget that one apple, peeled and chopped.
Pour this flavorful mixture all over the pork, cover it up, and set your slow cooker to low. Now comes the hardest part—waiting. Let it cook for 8 to 10 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature hits at least 195 degrees F and the meat is falling off the bone.
Once your pork is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool in the fridge overnight. Skim off any fat that rises to the top of the sauce the next day (it will look a bit like a strange yellowish-red layer).
Strain the de-fatted sauce back into the slow cooker, then shred that juicy pork with your fingers. It practically begs to be shredded. Toss the shredded pork back in with the sauce, give it a good stir, and let it cook on low for another 4 hours. This is where the magic happens as the sauce seeps into the tender bits of pork.
Finally, serve it up on sandwich buns, thick slices of homemade bread, or even over rice or noodles if you’re feeling fancy. It’s sure to be a hit, and who knows, maybe you’ll even have enough leftovers to enjoy it again tomorrow—if there are any leftovers, that is.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying that mouthwatering Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
For a twist, try using a different cut of meat like beef chuck or chicken thighs. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making your own.
To spice things up, add some cayenne pepper or switch Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard. Want to go tangy? Swap the white vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
You can even throw in pineapple chunks for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
While BBQ pulled pork is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level.
I love serving it with creamy coleslaw for a revitalizing crunch, or baked beans that add a sweet and smoky flavor. You can’t go wrong with cornbread, either; it soaks up all that tasty sauce.
For a lighter option, consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. If I’m feeling adventurous, I might even whip up some mac and cheese for comfort.
These sides complement the pulled pork perfectly, making every bite a delight!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your BBQ pulled pork turns out perfectly, I recommend a few tips that can enhance both the flavor and texture.
First, marinate the pork overnight for deeper seasoning. For a smoky kick, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke. If you prefer a slightly tangy flavor, try incorporating apple cider vinegar into your sauce.
Also, don’t rush the shredding process; let the meat cool a bit for easier handling.
Finally, serve the pulled pork with a dollop of slaw for a crunchy contrast. Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference in your final dish!