13 Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipes for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness

Are you craving that mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone pulled pork but don’t have the time or energy to spend hours tending to a smoker? Well, have no fear – your trusty crock pot is here to save the day! These simple and delicious pulled pork crock pot recipes are going to become your new best friends.

We all know that the key to amazing pulled pork is that low-and-slow cooking method that allows the pork shoulder or butt to become super tender and packed with flavor.

But who has the patience (or the outdoor space) to babysit a smoker all day long? That’s where these savvy crock pot pulled pork recipes come in clutch.

With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can let your crock pot work its magic all day long while you’re off being a productive human.

Come home to a kitchen filled with those trademark smoky, savory notes of pulled pork paradise. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for days, these easy crock pot pulled pork recipes have got you covered.

Ready to impress your family and friends with homemade pulled pork that tastes like it simmered all day? Dive into our crock pot pulled pork recipes today!

1. Classic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This is the quintessential pulled pork recipe, bursting with smoky barbecue flavors. A simple rub of spices coats the pork shoulder, which simmers low and slow in your crockpot until falling-apart tender. Shred the meat and toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce for the ultimate sandwich filling, taco topping, or party appetizer.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans

Drink Pairings: Iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer like a lager

2. Carolina Pulled Pork

Tangy and sweet, Carolina pulled pork is a vinegar-based twist on the classic. A blend of brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that perfectly complements the pork. This pulled pork is often served on buns with coleslaw and a drizzle of hot sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and hot sauce (if using). Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Hush puppies, pickles, or potato salad

Drink Pairings: Sweet tea, craft beer, or a zesty white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

3. Honey Garlic Pulled Pork

For a touch of Asian-inspired sweetness, try this honey garlic pulled pork. A combination of honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic infuses the meat with a depth of flavor that’s both savory and slightly caramelized. This pulled pork is delicious in lettuce wraps, on rice bowls, or nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad

Drink Pairings: Light beer, sparkling water with a twist of lemon, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio

4. Dr Pepper Pulled Pork

This unexpected twist uses Dr Pepper soda as the base of the cooking liquid, resulting in a surprisingly delicious and tender pulled pork. The sweetness of the soda balances the savory spices, creating a unique flavor that’s perfect for sliders or pulled pork nachos.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 can (12 oz) Dr Pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the Dr Pepper over the pork, then add the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Potato chips, coleslaw, or corn on the cob

Drink Pairings: Dr Pepper (of course!), root beer, or a robust red wine like Zinfandel

5. Root Beer Pulled Pork

Similar to Dr Pepper pulled pork, this recipe uses root beer for a sweet and slightly malty twist. The root beer adds a subtle caramel flavor that pairs well with the smoky spices typically used in pulled pork. Serve this on toasted buns with your favorite BBQ sauce and crunchy coleslaw.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 can (12 oz) root beer
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the root beer over the pork, then add the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or baked beans

Drink Pairings: Root beer, ginger ale, or a sweet iced tea

6. Chipotle Pulled Pork

For a smoky and spicy kick, try chipotle pulled pork. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce infuse the meat with a deep, smoky heat that’s balanced by the sweetness of brown sugar and the tang of apple cider vinegar. This pulled pork is perfect for those who love a little heat.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the chipotle peppers, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and cumin. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad

Drink Pairings: Margaritas, Mexican beer, or a refreshing agua fresca

7. Coca-Cola Pulled Pork

Another unexpected twist, Coca-Cola pulled pork is surprisingly delicious. The soda adds a subtle sweetness and caramel undertone that complements the savory spices. This pulled pork is perfect for casual gatherings or backyard barbecues.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the Coca-Cola over the pork, then add the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans

Drink Pairings: Coca-Cola, root beer, or a rich red wine like Merlot

8. Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Tangy and sweet, apple cider pulled pork is a fall-inspired twist on the classic. Apple cider adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the pork. This pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, served on pretzel buns with melted cheddar cheese and crispy apple slices.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad

Drink Pairings: Apple cider, amber ale, or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay

9. Cuban Mojo Pulled Pork

For a burst of citrusy flavor, try Cuban mojo pulled pork. A marinade of orange juice, garlic, cumin, and oregano infuses the meat with vibrant Latin flavors. This pulled pork is traditionally served on Cuban bread with mojo sauce and pickled onions.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and cumin. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Black beans, rice, or fried plantains

Drink Pairings: Mojitos, light beer, or a refreshing white wine like Albariño

10. Kalua Pulled Pork

Inspired by Hawaiian cuisine, kalua pulled pork is slow-cooked with liquid smoke and brown sugar, resulting in a smoky and slightly sweet flavor profile. This pulled pork is perfect for sliders, served on Hawaiian sweet rolls with pineapple salsa and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 tbsp sea salt (preferably Hawaiian)
• 1 tbsp liquid smoke

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with sea salt and liquid smoke.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and mix it back into the juices in the slow cooker.

Side Suggestions: Steamed white rice, macaroni salad, or coleslaw

Drink Pairings: Pineapple juice, Mai Tais, or a light beer

11. Korean BBQ Pulled Pork

Korean BBQ pulled pork is a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. A marinade of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, ginger, and garlic infuses the pork with a bold and complex flavor profile. Serve this pulled pork in lettuce wraps, on rice bowls, or nestled in soft Korean BBQ tacos.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, gochujang, sesame oil, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Kimchi, steamed rice, or Korean potato salad

Drink Pairings: Soju, Korean beer, or a cold green tea

12. Bourbon Pulled Pork

For a touch of sophistication, try bourbon pulled pork. Bourbon adds a subtle sweetness and warmth that complements the smoky spices typically used in pulled pork. This pulled pork is perfect for sliders or served on toasted brioche buns with a dollop of creamy blue cheese.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or collard greens

Drink Pairings: Bourbon cocktail, sweet tea, or a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon

13. Green Chile Pulled Pork

For a spicy twist, try green chile pulled pork. Roasted green chiles add a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the savory spices. This pulled pork is perfect for burritos, nachos, or served on tostadas with your favorite toppings.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork on top.
3. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the diced green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, and oregano. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Side Suggestions: Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad

Drink Pairings: Margarita, Mexican lager, or a fruity white wine like Riesling

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