Crock Pot Pulled Pork BBQ

Crock Pot Pulled Pork is a hands-off meal that lets you enjoy melt-in-your-mouth barbecue without firing up the smoker. This slow cooker method delivers deeply flavored pulled pork perfect for feeding a hungry family or a crowd at your next get-together.

I first tried this at a family reunion where everyone raved about how tender and flavorful it turned out. Now it is my go-to for low-stress entertaining or busy weeks when I want dinner ready as soon as we are home.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder roast: This cut becomes incredibly tender after long slow cooking Choose bone-in between four to six pounds for best results and flavor
• Dr Pepper: Adds sweetness and acidity helping break down the pork You can also use root beer or classic Coca-Cola for a subtle flavor twist
• Hickory liquid smoke: Provides a gentle smoky taste as if cooked over real wood Just a little goes a long way so measure carefully
• Pork rub seasoning: Adds layers of spice and savory notes Use homemade for control or trusted store-bought for ease Aim for fresh spices with no clumping and a fragrant aroma
• Barbecue sauce: Brings rich tangy flavor Choose Sweet Baby Rays or another favorite or make your own for a personal touch Look for thick sauces with natural sweeteners for richer taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pork:

Rinse the pork shoulder well and pat it completely dry using paper towels This helps the rub stick and lets the pork brown if exposed on the sides

Season the Pork Thoroughly:

Massage the pork rub all over the surface making sure to cover every part A generous rub crust brings more flavor Use your fingertips to work the seasoning into the edges and any crevices

Load the Slow Cooker:

Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your six to eight quart oval slow cooker If your piece is large you might need to nestle it diagonally

Add Liquid Ingredients:

Pour the full can of Dr Pepper around the pork not directly over it to keep the rub in place Drizzle the measured hickory liquid smoke evenly around the sides for even flavor distribution

Slow Cook Until Tender:

Cover and set your slow cooker to low Cook for eight to ten hours or until the pork falls apart at the touch of a fork The long cook time builds incredible tenderness and flavor

Shred the Pork:

Carefully remove the pork onto a cutting board Discard the bone and any large pieces of fat Use two forks to pull the meat into strands For smaller pieces chop with a sharp knife if you wish

Finish with Barbecue Sauce:

Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker Pour barbecue sauce over the top Stir to coat evenly Warm for another twenty to thirty minutes so flavors meld and serve on warm

Adding Sweet Baby Rays barbecue sauce reminds me of family picnics where we would line up at the slow cooker the tangy aroma hitting us before we even opened the lid The best part is watching everyone pile their own sandwich just the way they love it

Storage Tips

Store leftover pulled pork in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best reheating add a splash of the cooking liquid to keep it moist You can also portion and freeze for up to three months Try reheating gently in a pan or microwave with a cover to preserve tenderness

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Dr Pepper with root beer or classic cola for a sweeter tangy note For a lighter cut use pork tenderloin though cook time will be shorter and the flavor a bit leaner You can also use any rub or barbecue sauce you personally love so the result matches your taste

Serving Suggestions

Serve on toasted buns with shredded cabbage or southern style coleslaw Add pickles or crispy onions for crunch This pork is also great loaded into tacos on baked potatoes or even as a pizza topping For sides crinkle cut fries or cornbread round out the meal

Cultural Context

Pulled pork is a southern US staple cherished for its smoky depth and ease of sharing The crock pot version transforms this classic from a slow smoked event into a weeknight or party option blending tradition and convenience perfectly in one dish

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I make a homemade pork rub?

Blend garlic powder, red pepper flakes, paprika, black pepper, mustard powder, salt, and brown sugar, then rub thoroughly over the pork shoulder.

→ Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork shoulder?

Yes, pork tenderloin can be used. It cooks faster, often needing only 4-6 hours on low, but still delivers a tasty result.

→ Is liquid smoke necessary for this dish?

No, it's optional. A very small amount enhances a smoky flavor, but the dish is delicious without it if you prefer.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Select your preferred style. Favorites like Sweet Baby Ray’s or K.C. Masterpiece work well, or try making your own sauce for extra flavor.

→ How should I store leftover pulled pork?

Place cooled, shredded pork in a container with some cooking juices and refrigerate. It keeps fresh for up to three days.

→ What size pork shoulder fits in a slow cooker?

Choose a roast that fits your slow cooker, typically 4-6 pounds for a 6-8 quart oval model. Bone-in cuts are ideal for juicy texture.