BBQ Pulled Pork

BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe: Smoky, Tender & Full of Flavor

Introduction

BBQ Pulled Pork is a comfort food classic, known for its tender meat, smoky flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re a fan of Southern-style barbecue or just craving a hearty sandwich, this pulled pork recipe delivers big on flavor with a simple cooking process. Perfect for family gatherings, tailgating, or meal prepping, this dish can be made using a slow cooker, oven, or smoker. Get ready for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will satisfy any BBQ lover.

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Ingredients

Pork:

• 4–5 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Dry Rub:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp molasses
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Prepare the Pork

1. Trim and Season: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer for moisture and flavor. In a small bowl, mix all dry rub ingredients, then generously coat the pork with the rub. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight in the refrigerator, to allow flavors to penetrate.
2. Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side, creating a caramelized crust.

Cook the Pork

• For Slow Cooker: Place seared pork, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker. Add a small amount of water or chicken broth if desired for extra moisture. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and pulls apart easily.
• For Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the pork in a roasting pan, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 4-5 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender.
• For Smoker: Heat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and cook the pork shoulder for 6-8 hours, or until an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) is reached, ensuring it’s easy to shred.

Make the BBQ Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, molasses, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Shred and Sauce the Pork

1. Once the pork is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the meat.
2. Pour the BBQ sauce over the shredded pork and mix until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar for a tangier flavor, if desired.

Variations

• Sweet BBQ Pulled Pork: Add honey or additional brown sugar to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork: Increase the cayenne pepper in the rub or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Carolina-Style Pulled Pork: Use a vinegar-based sauce with apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper, and a touch of sugar for a tangy, Eastern Carolina twist.

Cooking Note

For the juiciest pulled pork, let the meat rest for 10–15 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Serving Suggestions

Serve BBQ Pulled Pork on toasted brioche buns topped with coleslaw for a classic sandwich, or use it as a filling for tacos or stuffed baked potatoes. Pair with sides like cornbread, baked beans, and pickles to complete the meal.

Tips

• Cooking Time: A low, slow cooking method will yield the most tender pork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 195°F before shredding.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze leftover pulled pork in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat with extra sauce for moisture.
• Quick BBQ Sauce Substitute: Use store-bought BBQ sauce for a shortcut, but adjust flavors with a dash of vinegar, brown sugar, or cayenne to enhance it.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 hours (slow cooker) or 4–5 hours (oven)
• Total Time: 8–10 hours

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQ

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, BBQ pulled pork can be made in advance and reheated. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for pulled pork, but you can use pork loin for a leaner option, though it may be slightly less tender.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free, or replace Worcestershire with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with extra sauce to keep it moist.

Conclusion

This BBQ Pulled Pork recipe brings a smoky, savory touch to any meal, from sandwiches to loaded baked potatoes. With simple ingredients and a variety of cooking methods, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Fire up your oven, smoker, or slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a BBQ feast at home!