Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce: Set It, Forget It, and Savor It

Step 4: Make the Homemade BBQ Sauce

While the pork is finishing up, prepare the BBQ sauce.
In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking—add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tang.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once the pork is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Discard any large fatty pieces. Using two forks, shred the pork into strands. The meat should come apart effortlessly.

If there’s a lot of liquid left in the slow cooker, you can skim off some fat from the top before returning the shredded pork to the pot.

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Pour about one cup of BBQ sauce into the shredded pork and stir to coat evenly. Let it sit on the “keep warm” setting for another 15–20 minutes so the flavors soak in beautifully.
Serve the rest of the BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

🍽️ How to Serve It

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile! Here are a few tasty ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Sandwich: Pile the pork high on a toasted bun and top with coleslaw for the perfect crunch.
• Tacos: Spoon into soft tortillas with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Baked Potato Topping: Add a hearty spoonful over a buttered baked potato with shredded cheese.
• Pulled Pork Bowls: Layer with rice, corn, and beans for a satisfying meal.

🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Pulled pork freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or sauce to keep it moist.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker pulled pork is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. It’s juicy, smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet—all the hallmarks of perfect BBQ. Plus, it requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy days or weekend gatherings.

So, go ahead—load up that slow cooker, let the magic happen, and get ready to set it, forget it, and savor it!

Would you like me to include a homemade coleslaw recipe that pairs perfectly with this pulled pork?