Save to Pinterest Tender, juicy pulled pork slow-cooked in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, served on fresh sandwich buns perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal.
This pulled pork recipe has been a hit at every family gathering I attended, bringing everyone together over tasty sandwiches.
Ingredients
- Pork: 1 (4-pound / 1.8 kg) boneless pork shoulder (pork butt) trimmed of excess fat
- Dry Rub: 2 tbsp brown sugar 2 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Cooking Liquid: 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- Barbecue Sauce: 2 cups (480 ml) barbecue sauce plus more for serving
- Sandwiches: 8 sandwich buns split and toasted Coleslaw (optional for topping) Pickles (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Rub:
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder cumin salt black pepper and cayenne pepper
- Season Pork:
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork
- Cook Pork:
- Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker Pour apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork (not over the top)
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is very tender and pulls apart easily with a fork
- Shred Pork:
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a cutting board Shred the meat using two forks discarding any large pieces of fat
- Prepare Pulled Pork:
- Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the barbecue sauce Mix well to coat the meat
- Serve:
- Serve the pulled pork on toasted sandwich buns Top with coleslaw and pickles if desired Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side
Save to Pinterest This recipe creates memories as we enjoy pulled pork sandwiches together at family barbecues and weekend gatherings.
Notes
Serve with potato salad corn on the cob or baked beans for a classic meal Substitute pork with boneless skinless chicken thighs for a lighter version
Required Tools
Slow cooker (6-quart or larger) Cutting board Two forks (for shredding) Mixing bowls Knife
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (if using regular buns) use gluten-free buns if needed Barbecue sauce may contain soy or other allergens check labels Coleslaw may contain eggs (if using mayonnaise) check ingredients if sensitive
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your pulled pork sandwiches with your favorite sides and extra barbecue sauce on hand for the perfect finish.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long should I cook the pork for best results?
Cook the pork on low heat in the slow cooker for about 8 hours, until it's tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- → Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Yes, the pork can be cooked a day in advance and reheated, allowing the flavors to develop even more overnight.
- → What can I use instead of pork shoulder?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a lighter alternative that also works well with the same seasoning and cooking method.
- → How do I make the pulled pork spicy?
Adding cayenne pepper to the dry rub or a few drops of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid can enhance the heat and smokiness.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Classic sides include potato salad, corn on the cob, or baked beans, which complement the smoky and tangy flavors of the pork.