Description

A versatile slow-cooker pulled pork recipe that serves as the anchor for weekly meal prep, offering five different lunch variations from a single batch of tender, flavorful meat.

Ingredients

Scale

3-to-5-pound pork shoulder (Boston Butt)
1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
4–6 garlic cloves, smashed
1–1.5 cups BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth (optional)

Instructions

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. If the piece is large, cut it in half to fit your Crockpot.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
Rub the spice mix all over the pork shoulder, ensuring the entire surface is coated.
Place chopped onions and smashed garlic at the bottom of the Crockpot. Pour in chicken broth if using.
Place the seasoned pork on top of the aromatics. Pour BBQ sauce over the pork and sprinkle brown sugar on top.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until the internal temperature reaches 195°F-205°F and the meat shreds easily.
Remove pork from the Crockpot. Discard large fat chunks and shred the meat using two forks or hands.
Mix the shredded pork back into the cooking juices. Stir in apple cider vinegar.
Let cool slightly, then portion into meal prep containers (approx. 1 cup per container).
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Do not skip the low and slow cooking method; high heat results in dry, stringy meat. Reserve cooking juices to keep the pork moist during meal prep. Pork loin is not recommended as it lacks the necessary fat and connective tissue. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup of pork with s
Calories: 375
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 650
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 15
Protein: 30

Keywords: pulled pork, crockpot recipe, meal prep, slow cooker, BBQ pork, lunch ideas, pork shoulder, easy dinner