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Secret Ingredient Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This slow cooker pulled pork is great for sandwiches and even better on it’s own. So great for a weeknight meal!

My favorite kid of a meal is one where you set it an forget it. If you can relate to this, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you today! This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is not only easy but it’s so good and versatile too!

One of the hardest parts of this whole thing is the amount of meals that we have to make for the family! The same breakfast starts to get annoying, then the same lunch and the same dinner. Finding ways to keep things creative in the kitchen is a challenge, especially when you are worn out from everything in general.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: A Flavorful Journey with a Twist

Welcome, food lovers! Today, I’m sharing with you an incredible recipe for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork made uniquely delicious with Not Your Father’s Root Beer. This pulled pork is so tender it practically melts in your mouth, and the unique root beer gives it an added layer of complexity and flavor. It’s perfect for busy days, as the slow cooker does all the hard work for you. Just toss the ingredients in, and voila—a delectable meal awaits.

FAQs

Do I have to use Not Your Father’s Root Beer?

While this particular root beer adds a special flair to the recipe, you can use any other root beer or soda that you like. The key is to choose something that complements the flavors of the pork and your chosen BBQ sauce.

Can I use a different cut of pork?

A pork roast is ideal for achieving that tender, easy-to-shred texture. However, pork shoulder or pork butt can also be used if you can’t find a pork roast.

How long should I cook the pork?

For a 4lb pork roast, cooking on low for 8-10 hours will yield the most tender meat. If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 5-6 hours will also work.

Meal planning for weeks at a time is tough. It’s one thing when you have full time access to all of the ingredients you would ever need, and it’s another when you have to grocery shop every two weeks or more to avoid going outside.

Related: Crockpot Brown Sugar Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Tips and Tricks

  1. Brown the Meat: For an added layer of flavor, brown the pork roast on all sides before placing it in the slow cooker.
  2. Fat Cap Up: Place the pork in the slow cooker with the fat cap facing up. This allows the fat to drip down, keeping the meat moist.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the meat sits in a single layer in your slow cooker. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.

Variations

  1. Spicy Pulled Pork: Add some chopped jalapenos or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  2. Herb-Infused: Add a bundle of your favorite fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more herbal flavor profile.

Where to Serve

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile! Serve it on rolls for a classic pulled pork sandwich, in tacos, or as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s also a hit at BBQs, family gatherings, or game days.

For me I’ve started to plan meals by major categories, for example: I’ll list the kids favorite chicken meals, beef meals, and vegetarian meals. I try to make two or more so that we can alternate dinner every night. When I am way too exhausted, then takeout is definitely an option.

One of absolute favorite things to do is throw everything in an instant pot or slow cooker/crockpot without having to think any more about it. Sure some of my favorite meals are cooked over a stove, but lately I don’t have the brain power to do that everyday!

Storage

Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to separate the sauce from the meat when freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

  1. Dry Meat: Cooking the meat too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking time and make sure to keep the lid closed during cooking.
  2. Too Salty: If your BBQ sauce is high in sodium, be cautious when adding any extra salt.

Tips for Making this Recipe with Kids

  1. Measure and Pour: Kids can help measure and pour the root beer and BBQ sauce.
  2. Mixing: Let them mix the sauce and root beer before pouring it over the pork.
  3. Shredding: Older kids can help with shredding the cooked pork using forks.

Topping Options

  1. Coleslaw: A classic topping that adds a crunchy texture.
  2. Pickles: For a tangy kick.
  3. Extra BBQ Sauce: For those who love it saucy.
  4. Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or gouda can add a creamy touch.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

So this recipe is super easy, all you need is a 4lb pork loin, half of a bottle of Not Your Father’s Root Beer, some BBQ sauce and rolls and you can make some pulled pork sandwiches! 

The best part about this recipe is that you don’t necessarily have to make sandwiches, you can eat it by itself with some roasted veggies, white rice, cornbread–whatever you want! Pork is super versatile and delicious so you can cater to the likings of each family member.

Why This Recipe Works

  1. Ease of Cooking: The slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly easy, requiring minimal effort for a flavorful result.
  2. Versatility: This pulled pork can be served in multiple ways, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
  3. Kid-Friendly: The simple steps and minimal ingredients make it easy to include kids in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity.

There you have it—everything you need to know to make a mouth-watering Slow Cooker Pulled Pork that’s both easy and packed with flavor. With this recipe, a sumptuous meal is just a slow cook away! Happy cooking!

Here are some more fun pork recipes for you to try!

Enjoy!

Easy Slow Cooker Meals: Amazing Pulled Pork
Yield: 6-8 sandwiches

Easy Slow Cooker Meals: Amazing Pulled Pork

Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours

This slow cooker pulled pork is great for sandwiches and even better on it's own. So great for a weeknight meal!

Ingredients

  • 4lb Pork Roast
  • 1/2 Bottle Not Your Father’s Root Beer
  • Bbq Sauce
  • Rolls

Instructions

  1. Place pork roast in crockpot.
  2. Pour 1/2 bottle of Not Your Father’s Root Beer into the crockpot.
  3. Cook on low 8hr. 
  4. Take a fork and shred the pork.
  5. Smother in BBQ sauce.
  6. Serve on buns and enjoy!

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