This unbelievably delicious Quick and Easy Pulled Pork comes together in about 8 hours in your trusty slow cooker yes, you heard that right! It’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” weeknight dinner that your family will just love! What’s even better? You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have at home or whatever needs finishing in your fridge! It’s my go-to recipe for those busy days when I want something that’s comforting and flavorful without breaking a sweat.

Ingredient Breakdown

Pork Shoulder

Pork shoulder is the magic ingredient that gives this pulled pork its tender, juicy texture. It’s perfect for slow cooking because it has a good amount of fat that keeps the meat moist as it cooks. You could also use pork butt or even a pork loin if that’s what you have on hand, but make sure to monitor cooking time, as pork loin will dry out faster than shoulder!

Barbecue Sauce

For this recipe, I like to use a store-bought barbecue sauce because it keeps things quick and easy! My personal favorite is a sweet and tangy variety that adds tons of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could throw together your homemade sauce using ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices! You can use any type of barbecue sauce you love, or even try a spicy version if you like a kick!

Onion

Onions are essential! They add a wonderful sweetness and depth to the dish. I prefer yellow onions for this recipe as they caramelize beautifully, but you can easily swap them out for white onions or even red if that’s what you’ve got. Just slice them thinly, and you’re good to go!

Garlic

Garlic brings a ton of flavor and aroma that just elevates the dish! I usually throw in about 4 cloves, but I’m a bit garlic-obsessed, so feel free to scale back if you prefer a milder taste. Oh, and don’t worry if you’ve got garlic powder instead, it will work just fine!

Smoked Paprika

This seasoning is one of my favorites, it adds that lovely, smokey flavor that swirls through the pulled pork. It’s absolutely key! You can totally swap this for regular paprika if you don’t have any; the smokiness is fantastic but not strictly necessary.

Cumin

Cumin adds a warm, earthy note that I find irresistible. It really complements the sweetness from the pork and sauce. If you don’t have cumin, you could use chili powder or even some Italian seasoning in a pinch!

Salt and Pepper

A couple pinches of salt and pepper are essential to bring the flavors all together! Don’t skimp here, friends you want that seasoning to really enhance every bite. You know your family best, so adjust the amounts according to their taste!

Buns for Serving (Optional)

But really, who doesn’t love a messy, delicious pulled pork sandwich? You’ll want some good quality buns for serving! Grab your favorite; I prefer soft but sturdy buns that can hold all that good meat and sauce without falling apart.

How to Make Quick and Easy Pulled Pork

Slice the onions and mince the garlic. Start by placing your sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a lovely flavor base.
Season the pork. Grab that beautiful pork shoulder and season it with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Just rub it all over the meat; it’s okay if it gets messy!
Layer the pork. Now, place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic, you want all those juices to flow down into the veggies.
Pour on the barbecue sauce. This is where the magic happens! Pour your barbecue sauce over the pork, coating it generously.
Cook it low and slow. Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender and easily shreds with a fork. I always try to resist the urge to peek, but the smell? Oh, it’s pure heaven.
Shred that pork. When it’s done, take those two forks and shred the pork right in the slow cooker, mixing it with all the yummy juices and the onions.
Serve it up! Serve the pulled pork on buns, if desired, with extra barbecue sauce on the side. And don’t forget to napkin up, that’s some messy goodness!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Quick and Easy Pulled Pork is my absolute go-to recipe when I’m in need of comfort food. It reminds me of all those family gatherings, where we’d sit around the table, slathering pulled pork onto buns and laughing the night away. It’s something everyone seems to adore yes, even my picky eater, which is a total win in my book! The best part is how versatile it is, you can use whatever you’ve got on hand, and it still turns out so delicious!

If you loved this pulled pork recipe, be sure to check out my Crockpot Sloppy Joes, my Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe, or check our Perfect Guide to Crockpot Meals with Ground Beef!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This recipe really comes together all in one pot, and while it simmers away in the slow cooker you’re free to tackle other things, like catching up on Netflix or doing, you know, actual adulting!

Crowd-Pleaser

You want to impress family or friends? This dish is a guaranteed hit. People head back for seconds… and thirds. Trust me on this one.

Customizable

The secret to a delicious pulled pork is how you can mix and match! Use your favorite spices, sauces, or even different cuts of meat. Don’t have barbecue sauce? Try a honey mustard or teriyaki glaze instead!

Meal Prep-Friendly

This pulled pork is perfect for meal prep! You can portion it out and keep it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It doesn’t lose its flavor when reheated!

Budget-Friendly

Pork shoulder is a pretty economical cut of meat, making this an affordable meal option, even for larger families! And when you combine it with basic pantry staples, it’s a win-win!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork shines when served on freshly toasted buns, but it also goes great in tacos, on nachos, or even over rice! Add some coleslaw for crunch and freshness, yum!

How Long it Keeps

Once you’ve made it, this pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure it’s cooled down before storing, okay?

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, pop it in the microwave for quick warmth or toss it in a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot and sizzly again. You want to keep it moist, so maybe add a splash of extra barbecue sauce!

Freezer-Friendly

Yes, yes, yes! This pulled pork is freezer friendly! Pack it in airtight bags or containers and store it for up to 3 months. Just remember to label and date them (future you will thank you!). When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

So, gather your family around the dinner table and whip up this Quick and Easy Pulled Pork! It’s bound to become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. Will you make it your own? I hope so! Happy cooking!