What cut of pork is best for pulled pork in a Crockpot?

Pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt) is the best cut for Crockpot BBQ pulled pork. It has a good amount of fat that renders down during the slow cooking process, resulting in tender and flavorful pulled pork.

How long does it take to cook pulled pork in a Crockpot?

Generally, it takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook pulled pork in a Crockpot. The pork is done when it's easily shredded with a fork.

Do you need to sear pork before putting it in the Crockpot?

Searing the pork before adding it to the Crockpot is optional, but highly recommended. Searing adds a depth of flavor and creates a nice crust on the outside of the pork.

What liquid do you put in a Crockpot with pulled pork?

You can use a variety of liquids, such as apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, beer, or even just water. The liquid helps to keep the pork moist during the slow cooking process. A combination of apple cider vinegar and your favorite BBQ sauce works well.

How do you keep pulled pork from drying out in a Crockpot?

To prevent dryness, don't overcook the pork. Cook it until it's easily shreddable, but not falling apart. Also, ensure there's enough liquid in the Crockpot and avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking.

Can you overcook pulled pork in a Crockpot?

Yes, you can overcook pulled pork in a Crockpot. Overcooked pork will become dry and mushy. Check for doneness around the 6-hour mark on low heat and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork for Effortless Weeknight Dinners 2026

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

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This set-it-and-forget-it recipe transforms a humble pork shoulder into tender, smoky pulled pork with minimal hands-on work. It is the ultimate meal prep solution, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, and grain bowls throughout the week. The house fills with a warm, comforting aroma as it slow cooks to perfection.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 8h
Total Time: 8h 15min
Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: slow cooking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt (bone-in or boneless)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
1 cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar
1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce, divided
1 large yellow onion, sliced

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Instructions

Pat the pork shoulder completely dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional chili powder to create the rub.
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, covering every side.
Scatter the sliced onions in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions.
Pour the chicken broth or apple cider vinegar around the pork (not over the top).
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours, until the pork shreds easily with two forks.
Transfer the pork to a large bowl. Discard any large pieces of fat and shred the meat using two forks.
Skim excess fat from the juices in the crockpot. Discard the onions or mix them in with the pork.
Return the shredded pork to the crockpot. Stir in 1 cup of the BBQ sauce until the meat is well coated.
Let the sauced pork warm through for another 15-30 minutes on LOW before serving.
Serve on buns, in tacos, or over grains with the remaining 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can quickly sear the seasoned pork in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8
Calories: 310
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 600
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 5
Unsaturated Fat: 9
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 15
Fiber: 1
Protein: 25
Cholesterol: 85

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/crockpot-bbq-pulled-pork-2/