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Easy Budget BBQ Pulled Pork Slow Cooker Recipe for Perfect Flavor Every Time

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A simple and budget-friendly slow cooker pulled pork recipe that delivers tender, juicy pork with smoky, tangy BBQ flavor. Perfect for busy days, potlucks, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston Butt)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
  • Optional: a few drops liquid smoke
  • Optional: a pinch red pepper flakes
  • Optional: coleslaw mix for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat if desired, leaving some fat for juiciness. Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Rub the spice mix all over the pork shoulder, pressing into the meat for even coverage.
  2. Place sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavor base and prevent sticking.
  3. In a mixing bowl, stir together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water. Add liquid smoke and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the pork.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or until pork is fork-tender and shreds easily. Alternatively, cook on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours for a quicker but slightly less tender result.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Using two forks or tongs, shred the meat in a large bowl, discarding large chunks of fat.
  7. Pour some cooking juices over the shredded pork and stir to coat. Add more BBQ sauce if desired for a saucier texture.
  8. Serve the pulled pork on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides such as coleslaw or pickles.

Notes

Rub the pork the night before for deeper flavor if possible. Use low and slow cooking for best tenderness. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain heat. Save leftover cooking liquid for dipping or reheating. Line slow cooker with a liner for easier cleanup. Adjust sauce amount after shredding for desired moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, BBQ, slow cooker, budget recipe, easy dinner, pork shoulder, comfort food, slow cooker pulled pork

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/easy-budget-bbq-pulled-pork-slow-cooker-recipe-for-perfect-flavor-every-time/