Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork (Printable)

Tender pork shoulder slow-cooked for 8 hours, seasoned with smoky spices and tossed in tangy barbecue sauce on soft buns.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Pulled Pork

01 - 3.3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed
02 - 2 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1 tsp black pepper
04 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika
05 - 2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 2 tsp onion powder
07 - 1 tsp ground cumin
08 - 1 tsp dried oregano
09 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
10 - ½ cup apple cider vinegar
11 - 1 cup chicken broth

→ For the Barbecue Sauce

12 - 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving

→ For Serving

13 - 6 soft sandwich buns
14 - Coleslaw (optional)
15 - Dill pickle slices (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
02 - Rub the spice mixture generously over all surfaces of the pork shoulder, pressing gently to adhere the seasonings.
03 - Transfer the seasoned pork to the slow cooker insert. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the base of the meat, avoiding pouring directly over the pork to preserve the rub.
04 - Cover and cook on low setting for 8 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 205°F and shreds effortlessly with a fork.
05 - Remove the cooked pork to a large bowl. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into shreds, discarding any large pieces of excess fat or connective tissue.
06 - Skim the layer of fat from the cooking liquid remaining in the slow cooker. Return the shredded pork to the cooker, add the barbecue sauce, and toss to coat. Heat on low for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
07 - Spoon the sauced pork generously onto the bottom halves of the sandwich buns. Top with additional barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickle slices as desired. Replace bun tops and serve immediately.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The slow cooker does practically all the heavy lifting while you go about your day
  • Leftovers somehow taste even better, making tomorrow's lunch something to actually look forward to
  • That moment when the pork basically shreds itself is ridiculously satisfying
02 -
  • Pouring the cooking liquid around rather than over the pork helps the spices stay put instead of washing off
  • Letting the meat rest briefly before shredding makes it easier to handle and keeps more moisture inside
  • The pork needs to reach that fall apart stage, so dont rush the cook time even if it looks done earlier
03 -
  • Line your slow cooker insert with parchment paper for ridiculously easy cleanup afterward
  • Freeze portions in freezer bags with some extra sauce for future lazy dinners
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