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

When it comes to comfort food that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, slow cooker pulled pork with BBQ sauce is a true winner. Juicy, tender pork infused with smoky spices and smothered in tangy-sweet sauce makes for the perfect filling in sandwiches, tacos, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. The beauty of this dish lies in the “set it and forget it” approach—your slow cooker does most of the work while you go about your day. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering classic step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4–5 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt) – well-marbled for juicy results
1 large onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup chicken broth or water
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tang)
Optional: a splash of liquid smoke for extra smokiness

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Trim any thick layers of fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some marbling intact—this fat keeps the meat moist as it cooks. Pat the pork dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly all over the pork, coating it well to lock in flavor.

Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker

Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. These not only add flavor but also act as a base to prevent the pork from sticking.