Juicy, Flavor-Packed Pulled Pork Crockpot Recipe

There’s something magical about a slow cooker meal that fills the house with mouthwatering smells by dinnertime and this pulled pork crockpot recipe is one of my family’s all-time favorites. It’s incredibly easy to throw together in the morning, and by dinner, you’ve got juicy, flavorful pork that practically falls apart on its own.

Pile it high on buns, serve it with slaw, or tuck it into tacos, this recipe is always a hit with both kids and adults. I’ve made this for game days, birthday parties, and cozy Sundays at home, and it never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love Pulled Pork Crockpot Recipe

This pulled pork recipe is the ultimate slow cooker win. It takes minimal prep, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and cooks low and slow for the most tender meat imaginable. It’s versatile, family-approved, and perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Simple Ingredients

These simple staples turn into something extraordinary in the slow cooker:

Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: The perfect cut for slow cooking well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender after hours in the crockpot.

Onion: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the cooking juices.

Garlic: Infuses the meat with extra savory flavor.

Paprika, Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder: This seasoning combo keeps it simple but packed with flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the pork.

Brown Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the vinegar and spice.

BBQ Sauce: Ties everything together with smoky, tangy richness use your favorite brand!

Water or Broth: Keeps things moist and helps create that flavorful cooking liquid.

Servings, Prep & Cook Time

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours on LOW or 5 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes

What is Needed

• 4–5 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prep the pork: Trim any large pieces of fat from the pork shoulder. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Layer the base: Place sliced onion and garlic in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add the pork: Set the pork shoulder on top of the onions.
4. Season: In a small bowl, mix paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Rub all over the pork.
5. Add liquids: Pour apple cider vinegar, water (or broth), and sprinkle brown sugar over the pork.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Shred: Remove pork and shred with two forks. Discard any large fatty bits.
8. Sauce it up: Return shredded pork to the crockpot, stir in BBQ sauce, and let it warm for 10–15 minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Pile onto buns, over rice, or into tacos don’t forget extra sauce!

Top Tips

1. Use pork butt for the best flavor and tenderness it’s a bit fattier, but that’s where all the magic happens.
2. Don’t skip the vinegar it cuts the richness and tenderizes the meat beautifully.
3. Let it rest before shredding this helps retain moisture.
4. Double up the BBQ sauce if you’re serving as sandwiches it keeps everything juicy and flavorful.
5. Kids love this served on mini slider buns or wrapped in tortillas!

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pulled Pork: Add chili powder or cayenne to the spice rub.
• Sweet & Smoky: Mix honey into the BBQ sauce or use a smoked paprika blend.
• Taco Style: Use cumin and lime juice instead of BBQ sauce for a more Mexican-style pulled pork.
• Low Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.

Recommended Equipment

• 6–8 qt Crockpot or slow cooker
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Tongs
• Two forks for shredding

Make Ahead Tips

Shred the pork, stir in the sauce, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the crockpot or microwave until warmed through.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of broth or sauce to keep it moist.

What To Serve With This Recipe

• Coleslaw (a must for sandwiches!)
• Baked beans
• Cornbread
• Macaroni and cheese
• Pickles or pickled red onions
• Potato salad or fries

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

Pulled pork is a classic Southern dish known for its tender, slow-cooked meat and smoky-sweet flavor. Originally made in smokers or over coals, this crockpot version brings all the flavor with none of the fuss. It’s become a go-to in busy family kitchens because it’s affordable, satisfying, and perfect for leftovers or party-sized portions.

Try my delicious Dr Pepper crock pot pulled pork it’s one of our families favorites!

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!