When you think of comfort food, a heaping pile of tender pulled pork slathered in smoky barbecue sauce likely comes to mind. With this Easy Slow Cooker BBQ recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of a slow-cooked barbecue without having to tend to a smoker or grill for hours.

Perfect for busy days, game nights, or family gatherings, this recipe transforms a humble pork shoulder into a crowd-pleasing dish that’s fall-apart tender. All you need is a handful of ingredients, a trusty slow cooker, and a little patience.

Why Slow Cooker BBQ is a Game-Changer

• Hands-Free Cooking: Set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic.
• Effortless Flavor: The cider vinegar tenderizes the pork while enhancing its natural flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Use the BBQ pork for sandwiches, tacos, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight dinners to potlucks, this recipe is always a hit.

Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker BBQ

Main Ingredients

• 1 (3-pound) boneless pork shoulder (Boston Butt) roast
• 3/4 cup cider vinegar
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (or to taste)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	10g
Total Fat	18g
Sodium	550mg

How to Make Easy Slow Cooker BBQ

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

• Place the pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
• Pour the cider vinegar over the pork, ensuring it coats all sides.
• Season generously with salt and ground black pepper.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Pork

• Set the slow cooker to Low and cook for 10-12 hours. The low and slow method ensures the pork becomes tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Shred the Pork

• Once the pork is fully cooked, transfer it to a platter. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
• Drain and discard the juices from the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce

• Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
• Add the barbecue sauce, stirring to coat the pork evenly.
• Cook on Low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the BBQ pork warm on buns, as a taco filling, or over rice. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ pairs beautifully with:

• Coleslaw: Add a creamy crunch as a side or topping for pulled pork sandwiches.
• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread balances the smoky barbecue flavors.
• Baked Beans: A hearty and smoky side that complements the dish perfectly.
• Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy potato salad adds a refreshing contrast.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker BBQ

1. Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder or Boston Butt is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content and marbling.
2. Don’t Rush It: Cooking on low heat for an extended period breaks down the meat fibers for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Customize the BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce or mix it up with spicy, sweet, or tangy variations.
4. Add a Smoky Flavor: For an authentic BBQ taste, stir in a teaspoon of liquid smoke.
5. Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead of time and reheat for convenience.

Why Vinegar Is Key to Slow Cooker BBQ

The addition of cider vinegar is more than just a flavor enhancer:

• Tenderizes the Meat: The acid breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender, juicy pork.
• Balances the Flavor: Vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork, adding brightness to the dish.
• Mimics Traditional BBQ: Vinegar-based sauces are a staple in many regional barbecue styles, particularly in the Carolinas.

Variations to Try

• Spicy BBQ Pork: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Sweet and Tangy: Mix in honey or brown sugar with the barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Use the shredded pork as a filling for tacos, enchiladas, or burritos.
• Loaded BBQ Potatoes: Serve the BBQ pork over baked potatoes with cheese and green onions.

FAQs About Easy Slow Cooker BBQ

1. Can I use a bone-in pork shoulder?
Yes, bone-in pork shoulder works well and adds extra flavor. Just remove the bone after cooking before shredding.

2. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted for a leaner option.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze pulled pork?
Yes! Cool the pork completely, then freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?
The best sauce is the one you love most! Whether it’s tangy, smoky, or sweet, choose one that matches your taste.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the additional pork. Adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.

Why You Should Make Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Tonight

This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The combination of tender pulled pork and smoky barbecue sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require hours of hands-on effort.

So dust off your slow cooker, grab a bottle of your favorite barbecue sauce, and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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