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Set and Forget Crock Pot Pulled Pork for Easy Meal Prep

A close-up of tender, saucy crock pot pulled pork piled high on a white plate.
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Make incredibly tender, juicy slow cooker pulled pork using a simple rub. This easy crowd pleaser is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or your weekly meal prep protein.

Ingredients

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  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to create your dry rub.
  2. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork shoulder.
  3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker.
  4. Pour the chicken broth or water around the pork shoulder in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours. The pork is done when it easily shreds with a fork.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  7. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it with about 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, or leave unsauced for meal prep flexibility.
  9. Cook on WARM for another 30 minutes to allow the meat to absorb the flavor.
  10. Serve hot on buns for amazing BBQ pulled pork sandwiches or use as a versatile meal prep protein.

Notes

  • For the juiciest result, aim for an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F before shredding.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce with the cooking liquid remaining in the slow cooker and reduce it slightly on the stovetop before mixing it back into the shredded meat.
  • This recipe makes excellent freezer meals. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/crock-pot-pulled-pork-easy-recipe/