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Tender Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Homemade Pulled Pork for Beginners

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A simple and forgiving slow cooker pulled pork recipe using just five ingredients, perfect for beginners and busy days. The slow cooking method ensures tender, juicy, and flavorful pulled pork every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), skin removed with some fat marbling
  • 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (recommend Stubb’s for smoky flavor)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat or smokiness

Instructions

  1. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry with paper towels. Slice the onion into rings and mince the garlic cloves.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar and the minced garlic. Stir well.
  3. Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Coat the pork shoulder thoroughly with the BBQ sauce mixture using tongs or hands.
  5. Place the coated pork shoulder on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Pour any remaining sauce over the top.
  6. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until pork is tender and shreds easily.
  7. Remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Return shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir through the cooking juices.
  8. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. For saucier pork, stir in an extra 1/4 cup (60 ml) BBQ sauce.
  9. Serve hot on buns with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite sides.

Notes

Use pork shoulder with fat marbling for juiciness. Do not rush cooking time; low and slow yields best results. Shred pork while warm and mix back in cooking juices to keep moist. Optional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne can add flavor. Can be made in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 60 minutes with natural release.

Nutrition

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