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Easy Tender Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe for a Crowd to Impress

easy tender crockpot BBQ pulled pork - featured image

A simple, no-fuss crockpot pulled pork recipe that yields tender, juicy meat perfect for feeding a crowd. Slow-cooked with a flavorful dry rub and BBQ sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), bone-in or boneless
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Trim and prepare the pork shoulder: Remove any thick layers of fat, leaving some for flavor and moisture. Pat dry with paper towels. (5 minutes)
  2. Mix the dry rub: Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well. (2 minutes)
  3. Coat the pork: Rub the dry spice mix all over the pork shoulder, covering every surface. (5 minutes)
  4. Place pork in the crockpot: Set the pork shoulder fat side up in the slow cooker. (1 minute)
  5. Add liquids: Pour apple cider vinegar around the pork (not directly on the rub). Add chicken broth if using. (2 minutes)
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours until fall-apart tender. Avoid opening the lid frequently. (8-10 hours)
  7. Shred the pork: Remove pork from crockpot onto a cutting board and shred with two forks or meat claws. (5-10 minutes)
  8. Mix in BBQ sauce: Return shredded pork to crockpot, add BBQ sauce, stir to combine, and cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes. (30 minutes)
  9. Final taste test: Adjust seasoning with salt or vinegar if needed. (2 minutes)
  10. Serve: Scoop pulled pork onto buns or plates with your favorite sides and enjoy immediately.

Notes

For a caramelized crust, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes before serving. Avoid opening the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain temperature and cooking time. Use pork shoulder for best texture. Adjust BBQ sauce quantity to taste. Can be cooked on high for 4-5 hours if short on time but low and slow is preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, crockpot, BBQ, slow cooker, pork shoulder, easy recipe, tender pork, crowd-pleaser, barbecue