If you're looking for the best crock pot pulled pork recipe, you've come to the right place! My friend Sarah once made this for a family barbecue, and it was such a hit that everyone went back for seconds. This tender crock pot pulled pork with pork roast or loin is not only easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone asking what's for dinner.
Why You’ll Love It
- It's super easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- The slow cooking makes the pork incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Pure Comfort
There's something about pulled pork that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you're serving it on a bun or with some sides, it's pure comfort food that brings everyone together.
What You Need
- 3 lb 3 lb pork roast or pork loin – You can also use pork shoulder for a richer flavor.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness; can substitute with shallots.
- 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 cup 1 cup barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own.
- 1 cup 1 cup chicken broth – Vegetable broth works as a great substitute.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp smoked paprika – For a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp brown sugar – Balances the flavors; can skip if desired.
- to taste Salt and pepper, to taste – Adjust according to your preference.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 8 hours | Total: 8 hours 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare the pork and store it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Steps to Make It
- Start by seasoning the pork roast or loin with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. This creates a flavorful crust that will enhance the taste as it cooks.
- Next, place the diced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your crock pot. They will add a lovely aroma and flavor to the meat as it cooks.
- Now, put the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic. Pour the chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the pork, making sure it's well-coated.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low for about 8 hours. The pork should be tender and easily shred with a fork when it's done. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Shred the pork using two forks, and mix it back into the sauce in the crock pot. This will soak up all that delicious flavor.
- Serve the pulled pork on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides. Enjoy the smiles around the table!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork overnight with the spices and sauce.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Mix It Up
- Try adding different spices like cumin or chili powder for a unique twist.
- Make it a barbecue pulled pork nacho night by serving it over tortilla chips with cheese!
Perfect Partners
- Coleslaw makes a great crunchy topping.
- Serve with baked beans for a classic barbecue meal.
- Cornbread is a delicious side that pairs perfectly with pulled pork.
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FAQs
Can I make this pulled pork ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and store it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze pulled pork?
Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?
You can use a homemade sauce or even a spicy salsa for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F and shreds easily with a fork.
Conclusion
This tender crock pot pulled pork with pork roast or loin is sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that's perfect for any gathering. So, gather your loved ones, serve up some pulled pork, and enjoy the delicious moments together!
Tender Crock Pot Pulled Pork with Pork Roast or Loin
Equipment
- crock pot
- forks
Ingredients
Main
- 3 lb pork roast or pork loin You can also use pork shoulder for a richer flavor
- 1 large yellow onion diced; can substitute with shallots
- 4 cloves garlic minced; fresh garlic gives best flavor; garlic powder can be used
- 1 cup barbecue sauce choose your favorite brand or make your own
- 1 cup chicken broth vegetable broth works as a great substitute
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika for a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used
- 1 tbsp brown sugar balances the flavors; can skip if desired
- to taste salt and pepper adjust according to your preference
Instructions
- Season the pork roast or loin with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar to create a flavorful crust.
- Place diced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the crock pot to add aroma and flavor.
- Put the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic, then pour chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the pork.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for about 8 hours until pork is tender and reaches 190°F internal temperature.
- Carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juiciness.
- Shred the pork using two forks and mix it back into the sauce in the crock pot to soak up flavor.
- Serve the pulled pork on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides.