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Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork for a Crowd

A close-up of tender, shredded Slow Cooker Pulled Pork generously coated in rich, glossy barbecue sauce on a white plate.
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Make easy party food for a crowd with this hands-off, smoky slow cooker pork shoulder recipe. It creates tender shredded pork perfect for Memorial Day main dish sliders or tacos.

Ingredients

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  • 4 lb boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bottle (18 oz) your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Place the pork shoulder in the basin of your slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Pour the liquid mixture over the pork shoulder.
  4. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
  5. Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Reserve the cooking liquid.
  6. Shred the pork using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the reserved cooking liquid and the entire bottle of BBQ sauce over the meat. Stir to coat evenly.
  8. Cook on the warm setting for at least 30 minutes to allow the meat to absorb the sauce. This is ideal for graduation party menu ideas where food sits out.
  9. Serve hot with buns for sandwiches or over rice for bowls.

Notes

  • For the best smoky flavor, use a good quality smoked paprika.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the shredded pork and simmer the remaining liquid on the stovetop until it reduces slightly before mixing it back in.
  • This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for slow cooked meat for sandwiches at any gathering.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://onedishuniverse.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork-party-hero/