Description
This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is fall-apart tender, juicy, and packed with smoky-sweet flavors. Made with a simple spice rub, it’s slow-cooked to perfection and easily shredded for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep. If you don’t have a slow cooker, no worries—there’s an oven-roasted option, too!
Ingredients
- 4–5 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (optional, for serving)
Spice Rub:
-
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 4–5 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (optional, for serving)
Spice Rub:
-
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method:
Prep the pork: Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, then coat with the spice rub, pressing it into the meat.
Cook: Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
Shred & serve: Remove the pork, shred it with two forks, and discard excess fat. Toss with BBQ sauce if desired, then serve!
Oven-Roasted Method:
Preheat & prep: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Rub the pork with olive oil and the spice mix.
Roast: Place the pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth, cover tightly with foil (or a lid), and roast for 4-5 hours, until fork-tender.
Crisp (Optional): For crispy edges, remove the lid, increase the oven to 425°F (220°C), and roast uncovered for 20-30 minutes.
Shred & serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes, then shred and mix with juices or BBQ sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear the pork in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before slow cooking or roasting.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months!