Crockpot Pulled Pork Weeknight Meal
Are you searching for a simple yet delicious weeknight meal that the whole family will love? Look no further! This crockpot pulled pork recipe is here to save your evenings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even a hearty bowl of rice. Let’s dive into the details!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes (low) or 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Buns, for serving (optional)
- Coleslaw, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat, and cut it into large chunks if necessary. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork chunks on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Transfer the seared pork to the crockpot. Add chopped onion and minced garlic on top.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the crockpot, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with the remaining sauce. Let it warm through for an additional 15-30 minutes.
- Serve the pulled pork on buns, topped with coleslaw if desired, or enjoy it as a filling for tacos or over rice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork
To ensure your pulled pork turns out perfect every time, consider these tips:
- Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling and fat content, which keeps the meat moist during cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Low and slow is the best method for tender meat. If you can, opt for the low setting.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding cayenne can give it a bit of heat!
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfect results, aim for an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F for shredding.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious pulled pork can be enjoyed in so many ways! Here are some serving ideas:
- Classic Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw for a traditional barbecue experience.
- Tacos: Fill corn or flour tortillas with pulled pork, diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a tasty twist.
- Over Rice: Serve the pulled pork over a bed of rice, drizzled with extra barbecue sauce, and garnished with green onions.
- Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier option, fill baked sweet potatoes with pulled pork and top with avocado.
Conclusion
This crockpot pulled pork is not just a meal; it’s an experience! With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a weekly favorite in your household. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the convenience of the crockpot and the satisfaction of a homemade meal that everyone will love!
