Are you looking for a mouth-watering and easy-to-make BBQ pork recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than slow cooker BBQ pork. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves tender, juicy pork with a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. In this article, we’ll show you how to make slow cooker BBQ pork that’s sure to become a family favorite.
What is Slow Cooker BBQ Pork?
Slow cooker BBQ pork is a type of BBQ pork recipe that’s cooked in a slow cooker, also known as a crock pot. This recipe involves placing a pork shoulder or butt in the slow cooker with a mixture of BBQ sauce, spices, and other ingredients, and then cooking it on low for several hours. The result is a tender, juicy pork that’s infused with the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce.
Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker to make BBQ pork has several benefits. Here are a few:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are incredibly convenient. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
- Tender meat: Slow cookers are perfect for cooking tougher cuts of meat, like pork shoulder or butt. The low heat and long cooking time break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and juicy.
- Rich flavors: Slow cookers allow the flavors of the ingredients to meld together and intensify, resulting in a rich, complex flavor profile.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make slow cooker BBQ pork, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup beer or stock
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 slow cooker (at least 6 quarts in size)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 pair of tongs or a slotted spoon
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to slow cooker BBQ pork, the right cut of meat is crucial. Here are a few options:
- Pork shoulder: This is a classic choice for slow cooker BBQ pork. The shoulder has a good balance of fat and lean meat, which makes it tender and juicy.
- Pork butt: This cut is similar to the shoulder, but it has a bit more fat. This makes it even more tender and flavorful.
Instructions
Making slow cooker BBQ pork is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder or butt. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
- Season the meat with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Mix the BBQ Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, beer or stock, and brown sugar.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Add the Meat and Sauce to the Slow Cooker
- Place the pork shoulder or butt in the slow cooker.
- Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the meat, making sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Cook the Meat
- Cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- After 6 hours, check the meat for tenderness. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Shred the Meat
- Once the meat is tender, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and toss it in the BBQ sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the slow cooker BBQ pork on a bun, topped with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your slow cooker BBQ pork to the next level:
- Use a variety of BBQ sauces: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, such as Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, or Alabama-style.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the BBQ sauce.
- Try different types of meat: While pork shoulder or butt is traditional, you can also use other types of meat, such as beef brisket or chicken thighs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker BBQ pork:
- Overcooking the meat: This can make the meat dry and tough. Make sure to check the meat regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Not using enough BBQ sauce: This can result in a dry, flavorless meat. Make sure to use enough BBQ sauce to coat the meat fully.
Conclusion
Slow cooker BBQ pork is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a tender, juicy pork that’s infused with the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to try, slow cooker BBQ pork is sure to become a family favorite.
What is the best type of pork to use for slow cooker BBQ pork?
The best type of pork to use for slow cooker BBQ pork is a tougher cut, such as a pork shoulder or butt. This type of cut is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender and falls apart easily after several hours of cooking. You can also use other tougher cuts, such as a pork loin or ribs, but a pork shoulder or butt is the most popular choice.
When selecting a pork shoulder or butt, look for one that is boneless and has a good layer of fat. The fat will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. You can also use a bone-in pork shoulder or butt, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker BBQ pork?
The cooking time for slow cooker BBQ pork will depend on the size of the pork shoulder or butt and the temperature of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes 8-10 hours to cook a 2-3 pound pork shoulder or butt on low heat. If you prefer to cook it on high heat, it will take 4-6 hours.
It’s essential to check the pork periodically to ensure it is tender and falls apart easily. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. It should reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C) to ensure food safety.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker BBQ pork recipe?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker BBQ pork recipe to enhance the flavor and texture. Some popular ingredients to add include onions, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add other spices and seasonings, such as paprika, cumin, and chili powder, to give the pork a unique flavor.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you add vegetables, they may be tender after 6-8 hours of cooking. You can also add barbecue sauce or other sauces during the last 30 minutes of cooking to give the pork a sweet and tangy flavor.
How do I shred the slow cooker BBQ pork?
To shred the slow cooker BBQ pork, use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a meat shredder to shred the pork. If the pork is tender and falls apart easily, it should be easy to shred.
When shredding the pork, make sure to remove any excess fat or connective tissue. You can also add barbecue sauce or other sauces to the shredded pork to give it a flavorful and saucy texture. To serve, place the shredded pork on a bun or serve it with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans.
Can I make slow cooker BBQ pork ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker BBQ pork ahead of time. In fact, it’s a great recipe to make ahead of time because the pork becomes more tender and flavorful after several hours of cooking. You can cook the pork on low heat for 8-10 hours, then refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
When reheating the slow cooker BBQ pork, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave. To reheat in the slow cooker, place the pork in the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 1-2 hours. To reheat in the oven, place the pork in a covered dish and heat at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
How do I store leftover slow cooker BBQ pork?
To store leftover slow cooker BBQ pork, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to label the container with the date and contents.
When reheating leftover slow cooker BBQ pork, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the slow cooker, oven, or microwave. To reheat in the slow cooker, place the pork in the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 1-2 hours. To reheat in the oven, place the pork in a covered dish and heat at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce for slow cooker BBQ pork?
Yes, you can use a different type of barbecue sauce for slow cooker BBQ pork. In fact, there are many types of barbecue sauce to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular types of barbecue sauce include Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, and Texas-style.
When selecting a barbecue sauce, make sure to choose one that complements the flavor of the pork. For example, if you’re using a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, you may want to add other ingredients, such as onions or bell peppers, to balance out the flavor. You can also make your own barbecue sauce from scratch using ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, and spices.