Description
An easy 5-ingredient slow cooker pulled pork recipe perfect for beginners, delivering tender, flavorful pork with minimal prep and fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt), boneless
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1/2 cup (120 ml) barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to ensure seasoning sticks well. Trim any excessively thick fat cap if desired.
- Rub the pork all over with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Set the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the meat.
- Pour the apple cider vinegar around the pork, avoiding pouring directly on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours or HIGH for 4 to 6 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Skim excess fat from the slow cooker juices and pour the remaining liquid over the shredded pork. Toss well.
- If desired, stir in barbecue sauce for a saucier finish.
- Serve warm on buns or your favorite bread.
Notes
Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to prevent heat loss. Let pork rest 10-15 minutes after cooking for easier shredding. Skim excess fat from juices before mixing with pork. For a crispy texture, broil shredded pork for 5 minutes before serving. Can be cooked in a Dutch oven or Instant Pot as alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 to 10 hours (LOW) or 4 to 6 hours (HIGH)
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 oz (113 g) c
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 20
- Protein: 20
Keywords: pulled pork, slow cooker, crock-pot, barbecue, easy recipe, pork shoulder, beginner friendly, comfort food