Crockpot Pulled Pork (5 Ingredients)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Description
This Crockpot Pulled Pork is one of the easiest slow cooker recipes you can make. With just five simple ingredients, the pork becomes incredibly tender, juicy, and packed with flavor after slow cooking all day. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, sliders, rice bowls, or meal prep, this recipe is a family favorite that requires very little effort but delivers amazing results.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 1 bottle (18 oz) barbecue sauce
- 1 can (12 oz) cola
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder into the bottom of a large slow cooker. Sprinkle the garlic powder and onion powder evenly over the pork, making sure all sides are lightly seasoned.
- Pour the cola around the pork. The liquid helps keep the meat moist while slowly breaking it down into tender, juicy strands during cooking.
- Pour about half of the barbecue sauce over the pork, reserving the remaining sauce for later. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours or HIGH for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Carefully transfer the cooked pork to a large bowl or cutting board. Remove any large pieces of fat and shred the meat using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining barbecue sauce. Mix until the pork is fully coated and juicy.
- Let the pork sit in the sauce for about 15 minutes before serving so it can absorb even more flavor.
- Serve warm on sandwich buns, slider rolls, tacos, baked potatoes, or over rice.
Notes
- Pork shoulder is the best cut because it becomes tender and shreds easily.
- Avoid using lean pork loin, which can dry out during long cooking.
- If the pork releases a lot of liquid, drain some before adding the final barbecue sauce.
- Shredding the pork while it’s still warm is much easier.
- The flavor improves even more after sitting in the sauce for a few minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 to 10 servings
- Calories: 390 per serving
Variations
- Use root beer instead of cola for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky barbecue taste.
- Mix in a little hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use honey barbecue sauce for a sweeter version.
- Add sliced onions to the crockpot for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pile onto toasted hamburger buns with coleslaw.
- Serve in slider buns for parties and game days.
- Use as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Spoon over baked potatoes with shredded cheese.
- Serve alongside baked beans, corn on the cob, or macaroni salad.
Tips
- Cook on LOW whenever possible for the most tender results.
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor.
- Make a double batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.
- Let the pork rest in the sauce before serving for maximum flavor.
- Save some cooking juices to keep leftovers moist.
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Serving Size
Serves: 8 to 10 servings
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 390 per serving
Protein: 31g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 22g
FAQs
Can I use frozen pork in the crockpot?
For food safety reasons, it is best to thaw the pork completely before placing it in the slow cooker. Starting with thawed meat helps it cook evenly and safely reach the proper temperature.
What is the best cut of pork for pulled pork?
Pork shoulder, also called pork butt or Boston butt, is the most popular choice. It contains enough fat and connective tissue to become incredibly tender during the long cooking process.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, many people think pulled pork tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator with some of the sauce and juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
How do I store leftovers?
Place cooled pulled pork in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a little extra barbecue sauce or cooking liquid to keep it from drying out.
Can I freeze pulled pork?
Absolutely. Let the pork cool completely, then place it in freezer-safe bags or containers with some sauce. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Pulled Pork (5 Ingredients) proves that simple recipes can deliver incredible flavor. With minimal prep and only a handful of pantry staples, you get tender, juicy pulled pork that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, parties, and backyard gatherings. Once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite slow cooker recipes.