Sink your teeth into this melt-in-your-mouth Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, a saucy, smoky, tender pile of goodness that’s perfect for sandwiches, sliders, tacos, or even just by the forkful. Slowly simmered to perfection with rich BBQ sauce and spices, this is the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel like summer cookouts and gatherings feel effortless.

Whether you pile it high on a soft bun with tangy slaw or serve it family-style with sides, this pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep. Your slow cooker does the heavy lifting, leaving you with rich, flavorful, juicy pork that’s fall-apart tender by the time dinner rolls around.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

It’s incredibly easy—just set it and forget it.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.
Juicy, saucy, tender pork every single time.
Customizable with your favorite BBQ sauce, spices, and toppings.
Works for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, rice bowls and more.

What Kind of Pork Should I Use?

The best cut for pulled pork in a slow cooker is pork shoulder (also known as pork butt or Boston butt). It has the right amount of fat and marbling to break down beautifully during the long cook. Boneless is easiest, but bone-in works too—just remove the bone before shredding.

Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Every ingredient here plays a role in creating a juicy, flavor-packed pulled pork that cooks low and slow to perfection:

Pork Shoulder (4-5 lbs): This cut becomes fall-apart tender and soaks up flavor wonderfully.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and caramelization.
Smoked Paprika: Gives a smoky depth without needing a smoker.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essentials for a savory backbone.
Salt & Black Pepper: To enhance every bite.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances out the sweetness with tang.
BBQ Sauce (2 cups): Choose your favorite—sweet, spicy, smoky, or a mix.
Coleslaw (optional): Adds crunch and contrast when serving on buns.
Brioche Buns: Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for absorbing those saucy bites.

How To Make the Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Step 1: Season the Pork

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Be generous—this forms the base layer of flavor.

Step 2: Set It in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and about half the BBQ sauce. Cover with the lid.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set the slow cooker to low for 8-10 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s incredibly tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 4: Shred and Sauce

Transfer the pork to a cutting board and shred it using two forks. Discard any large fat pieces. Return the meat to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining BBQ sauce. Let it warm through another 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Pile the pulled pork onto brioche buns and top with coleslaw, or serve however you like. Drizzle with extra sauce for that irresistible juicy finish.

How to Store and Serve Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This recipe makes enough to generously feed 8-10 people. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, it stores beautifully:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently for best results.

To serve, reheat slowly in a covered pan with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it juicy. It’s just as good the next day!

What to Serve With Pulled Pork?

Classic Coleslaw

Crisp, creamy slaw adds freshness and crunch to balance the rich pork.

Sweet Cornbread

A slice of honey-drizzled cornbread on the side is the perfect Southern touch.

Macaroni and Cheese

Go all in on comfort food with a creamy, cheesy pasta dish.

Baked Beans

Sweet and smoky beans make a hearty, classic BBQ pairing.

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

Add some greens with these crispy roasted beans for texture and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pulled pork ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavor deepens after a night in the fridge. Perfect for parties or meal prep.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can use white vinegar or even a splash of lemon juice for a similar tangy lift.

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, but pork shoulder is ideal. Pork loin is leaner and won’t be as tender, but it can still work in a pinch.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you loved this slow cooker pulled pork, here are more recipes you should definitely try:

Save This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Pin for Later

Pin this delicious pulled pork recipe to your favorite dinner or BBQ board so you’ll always have it ready. Whether you’re feeding the family, planning a game day feast, or just craving comfort food, this one’s a keeper.

Tried it? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you go classic with slaw, or turn it into tacos? Share your tweaks and tips in the comments—let’s keep inspiring each other in the kitchen.

And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more recipes shared daily on Lorenzo Devereaux Recipes.

Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that feeds a crowd and leaves everyone asking for seconds? This Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is your new go-to! Juicy pork shoulder is slow-simmered to perfection in a tangy BBQ sauce blend with spices and sweetness that balance beautifully. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a party, or just want an easy dinner, this pulled pork delivers on all fronts. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, rice bowls, and beyond, it fits perfectly into your list of quick dinners, easy recipes, and comfort food favorites.