Pulled Pork Recipe

Pulled Pork Recipe

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Tender, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed

Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this Pulled Pork Recipe that’s slow-cooked to perfection. This easy and nutritious dish delivers tender, fall-apart pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, bowls, tacos, or meal prep for the week. Let’s get cooking!

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOK TIME: 6-8 hours
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: American
SERVINGS: 6 servings

EQUIPMENT:

  • Slow cooker or Dutch oven
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Two forks (for shredding)
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (boneless or bone-in)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup natural barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and trim excess fat if needed.
  2. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and chili powder.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork.

Step 2: Slow Cook

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side (optional but adds flavor).
  2. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
  3. Add chicken broth and apple cider vinegar around the pork.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Step 3: Shred the Pork

  1. Remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
  2. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in barbecue sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavorful juices.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the pulled pork warm on whole-grain buns, over brown rice, or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
  2. Drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
  3. Enjoy your tender and delicious homemade pulled pork!

TIPS:

  • For extra flavor, let the pork marinate overnight with the spice rub before cooking.
  • Use leftovers for tacos, salads, or protein-packed meal prep bowls.
  • If using a Dutch oven, cook covered at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours until tender.

KEYWORD: Pulled Pork Recipe, Slow Cooker Pork, Healthy Pulled Pork

Author

  • Hello, I'm Brandt, a Certified Grillmaster, chef, and culinary enthusiast with a lifelong passion for creating exceptional flavors through grilling and cooking. Over the past 30 years, I've honed my barbecue skills on a wide range of smokers, grills, and culinary techniques. I've served as a BBQ judge and earned awards and recognition for my achievements in the world of barbecue.

    I'm also an author, writer, and contributor to sites such as Fine Cooking, The Food Chronicles, My Tasty Dish, and The Cooking. I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and guiding you on your culinary journey.

    Join me as we dive deep into the art of grilling, where I'll be unveiling my time-tested tips and secret recipes that bring people together, one sizzle at a time!

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Last updated: April 14, 2026