The Lazy Slow Cooker: Easy Recipes & Meals
Discover easy slow cooker recipes from The Lazy Slow Cooker! Find simple, delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Perfect for busy home cooks. This recipe is for a classic Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork, a perfect example of a delicious, low-effort meal.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar for tang
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 18 oz bottle barbecue sauce (approx. 2 cups), divided
- Hamburger buns for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork.
- Load Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions. Pour the chicken broth (or apple cider vinegar) over the pork.
- Cook: Pour about 1/2 cup of the barbecue sauce over the pork. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred: Carefully remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and transfer it to a large bowl or a clean cutting board. Discard any large pieces of fat. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Finish: Drain most of the liquid from the slow cooker, leaving about 1/2 cup for moisture. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce, mixing well to coat all the pork evenly.
- Serve: Keep the pulled pork on the WARM setting until you're ready to serve. Serve hot on hamburger buns, perhaps with a side of coleslaw or pickles.
Notes
Storage: Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your spice rub. For a richer flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke to the slow cooker.
Serving Suggestions: Serve on slider buns, over baked potatoes, or even on a salad for a lighter meal.
