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Foolproof Crock Pot Pulled Pork for Amazing Sandwiches

A mound of tender, shredded crock pot pulled pork generously coated in dark, glossy barbecue sauce on a white plate.

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Make incredibly tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork using your slow cooker. This easy recipe is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

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  • 4-5 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (for after shredding)

Instructions

  1. Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder in a small bowl to create your dry rub.
  2. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the meat.
  3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
  4. Pour the apple cider vinegar and water around the pork in the slow cooker basin.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any excess liquid from the slow cooker.
  7. Use two forks to shred the pork completely. Remove and discard any large pieces of fat.
  8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the meat and stir well to coat.
  9. Set the slow cooker to the WARM setting for 30 minutes to allow the pork to absorb the sauce.
  10. Serve hot on buns for the best BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.

Notes

  • For the juiciest results, aim for an internal temperature near 200°F before shredding, though the slow cooker method usually guarantees tenderness.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, drain off most of the liquid from the slow cooker before adding the BBQ sauce.
  • This slow cooker pulled pork freezes well for future meal prep protein.

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