Crockpot Pulled Pork: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort food, look no further than crockpot pulled pork. This recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue. Perfect for family gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night at home, this pulled pork will satisfy your cravings and bring everyone to the table.
With a short list of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy pork that simply falls apart. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Sear the Pork (optional): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the pork to your crockpot. Pour the chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Combine with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the crockpot, mixing it with the remaining sauce for additional flavor. Let it warm through for about 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the pulled pork on buns, topped with coleslaw if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pulled Pork
To make sure your pulled pork turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder is ideal for this recipe due to its higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist during cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Cooking on low for an extended period allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Avoid cooking on high unless you’re short on time.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices and barbecue sauce to match your taste preferences. Try adding some cayenne pepper for heat or apple cider vinegar for tang.
- Leftovers: Pulled pork stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas to enjoy your delicious creation:
- Classic Sandwich: Serve on soft buns with a scoop of coleslaw for a traditional pulled pork sandwich.
- Tacos: Use tortillas and top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for a flavorful twist.
- Over Rice: Serve the pulled pork over a bed of rice with a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce for a hearty meal.
- With Sides: Pair with baked beans, corn on the cob, or a refreshing salad for a complete dinner.
Conclusion
This crockpot pulled pork recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its ease of preparation and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night in, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your comfort food rotation!
