Walking into the kitchen, the rich, smoky aroma of pulled pork greets you like a warm hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork for my family; the sounds of laughter and chatter filled the room as everyone eagerly anticipated the meal. This recipe is special because it’s more than just a dish. It’s a way to gather, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. You can easily whip it up for a weeknight dinner or a Saturday barbecue with friends. You’ll find that the layers of flavor in this dish create a comforting, satisfying experience. It’s a delightful way to enjoy tender, flavorful meat that everyone loves.
why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork is perfect for those who appreciate a good, hearty meal with minimal fuss. One of the best things about this recipe is its ease; simply set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work. The spices meld beautifully during the cooking process, resulting in a tender and juicy pork that pulls apart effortlessly. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it on a bun, over nachos, or atop a baked potato. This recipe saves you time and brings delicious flavor to your table, making it the ideal choice for busy families or gatherings.
how to make Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (or butt)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix the Texas dry rub ingredients: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and minced garlic.
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and then apply the dry rub generously on all sides of the meat.
- Place the rubbed pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
- In another bowl, combine the cooking liquid ingredients: brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, ground mustard, and liquid smoke.
- Pour the cooking liquid over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low heat for at least 8 hours, or until the pork is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily.
- Serve as desired.
how to serve Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
This pulled pork can be served in many delicious ways. For a classic option, pile the tender meat onto hamburger buns and add your favorite barbecue sauce. You could also serve it over crispy tortilla chips for nachos topped with cheese, salsa, and jalapeños. Alternatively, enjoy it on a baked potato for a comforting meal. The options are endless!
how to store Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
To store any leftover pulled pork, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’d like to store it for longer, freeze the pulled pork in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
- For best results, choose a well-marbled pork shoulder, as the fat ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful.
- Feel free to adjust the spice quantities in the dry rub to match your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add a bit more cayenne pepper.
- You can prepare the dry rub and the cooking liquid the night before to save time in the morning.
- Don’t skip the liquid smoke; it adds a deep, smoky flavor that’s a hallmark of Texas-style barbecue.
variation
If you want to switch things up, try adding different ingredients to the cooking liquid. For instance, you can use a bottle of beer instead of apple cider vinegar for an extra kick of flavor. Alternatively, add some chopped onions or even a few slices of jalapeño for added heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin, but keep in mind that it is leaner and may not be as tender or flavorful.
2. How can I reheat the pulled pork?
Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, or microwave it in short intervals until warmed through. You can add a splash of barbecue sauce or broth to help keep it moist.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the pulled pork a day or two in advance, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving for a quick and easy meal.
Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
Ingredients
For the dry rub
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (or butt) Choose a well-marbled cut for tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for spice level.
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
For the cooking liquid
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar Can substitute with beer for an alternate flavor.
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke Important for that smoky flavor.
Method
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix the Texas dry rub ingredients: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and minced garlic.
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and then apply the dry rub generously on all sides of the meat.
- Place the rubbed pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
Cooking
- In another bowl, combine the cooking liquid ingredients: brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, ground mustard, and liquid smoke.
- Pour the cooking liquid over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low heat for at least 8 hours, or until the pork is tender.
Shredding
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily.
- Serve as desired.