Smoked Pulled Pork in the Slow Cooker

Looking for a savory, melt-in-your-mouth meal that’s full of smoky flavor? Your search ends here with this Smoked Pulled Pork recipe made in the slow cooker.

It’s tender, juicy, and perfectly smoky—just like the BBQ you crave, but without the need for a grill. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a big get-together.

Let’s jump into how to make the best smoked pulled pork right in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe

• Effortless: You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Full of Flavor: Smoky, sweet, and savory, this pulled pork is packed with flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It makes a lot, so you’ll have leftovers for days.
• Customizable: Add your favorite BBQ sauce, spice level, or toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients for Smoked Pulled Pork in the Slow Cooker

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: This is the best cut for slow cooking because it’s fatty and tender, making it perfect for pulling.
• Dry Rub: A mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika to give that deep smoky flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A little bit of vinegar adds tang and helps tenderize the meat.
• Chicken Broth: This adds moisture while cooking and helps create a tasty base for the pulled pork.
• BBQ Sauce (optional): Your favorite BBQ sauce to toss the pork in after it’s done. Choose a sweet or tangy sauce based on your taste.

How to Make Smoked Pulled Pork in the Slow Cooker (Step-by-Step)

Ready to dive into the slow-cooked goodness? Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Pork:
   Start by mixing your dry rub ingredients in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
2. Place in the Slow Cooker:
   Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork. This will help create steam and keep the meat moist while cooking.
3. Slow Cook the Pork:
   Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the pork cook for 8 hours or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
4. Shred the Pork:
   Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat. It should fall apart effortlessly.
5. Add BBQ Sauce (Optional):
   If you like your pulled pork with BBQ sauce, now’s the time to toss the shredded pork in your favorite sauce. You can mix it in the slow cooker, or serve it on the side.

Tips for the Best Smoked Pulled Pork

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: The slow cooker does its magic over time. Low and slow is the key to tender, juicy pulled pork.
• Use the Right Cut: Pork shoulder or butt is ideal. Other cuts like pork loin won’t be as tender.
• Shred it Right: Make sure the pork is tender enough to shred easily. If it’s not shredding, let it cook a little longer.
• Adjust the Flavor: Play around with your dry rub ingredients. Add more sugar for sweetness, or more chili powder for heat.

Variations and Customizations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your dry rub for some heat.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked salt or liquid smoke to really bring out the smoky flavor.
• Sweet and Tangy: Swap the apple cider vinegar for pineapple juice to add a fruity twist.

What to Serve with Smoked Pulled Pork

While this pulled pork is tasty on its own, here are a few sides that pair perfectly with it:

• Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy side that balances out the smoky flavors.
• Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly, cornbread is a great complement to pulled pork.
• Pickles: The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the pork and adds freshness.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries with a hint of sweetness are the perfect side dish.

Meal Prep, Storage, and Freezing Tips

• Storage: Leftover pulled pork keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little broth or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Pulled pork freezes wonderfully. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use a pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
Pork loin won’t work as well because it’s leaner and doesn’t shred as easily. Stick with pork shoulder or butt for the best results.

Can I make this without BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! The pork is flavorful on its own, so you can skip the BBQ sauce or use a different sauce you prefer.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, but cooking on high will reduce the cooking time to about 4–5 hours. However, cooking on low for 8 hours will give you the best results.