18 Tender Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes with Bold Flavors

recipesforlife

March 31, 2025

When it comes to tender, fall-apart meat that’s packed with bold flavors, slow cooker pulled pork is hard to beat. With a little creativity and some mouth-watering ingredients, you can transform a humble pork shoulder into a culinary masterpiece. In this collection of 18 tender slow cooker pulled pork recipes, we’ve got everything from classic BBQ-inspired dishes to sweet and tangy twists that will keep you coming back for more.

From the comfort of your own kitchen, you can create deliciously flavored pulled pork with flavors like honey garlic, spicy chipotle, and even cola. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Classic BBQ Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Classic BBQ Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Get ready to fall in love with this tender and flavorful pulled pork recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple slow cooker method, you’ll achieve mouthwatering results that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings (such as coleslaw, pickles, or fresh herbs).

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Elevate your pulled pork game with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe! Tender, juicy pork shoulder smothered in a sticky honey garlic glaze is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the honey glaze over it.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Use two forks to pull apart the pork into shreds. Serve hot with your favorite barbecue sides.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Spicy Chipotle Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Spicy Chipotle Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform your taste buds with this mouth-watering slow-cooked pulled pork infused with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers. Perfect for a casual dinner or a party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to high.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork shoulder; brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add minced chipotle peppers, sliced onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on high for 6-8 hours or low for 10-12 hours.
5. Using two forks, pull apart the pork into shreds. Serve with your favorite sides and a dollop of your preferred BBQ sauce.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (high) or 10-12 hours (low)

Apple Cider Vinegar Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Apple Cider Vinegar Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This Apple Cider Vinegar Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe is a unique twist on the classic comfort food. The addition of apple cider vinegar gives the pork a tangy flavor that complements its tender texture.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. After cooking, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
4. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as barbecue sauce, coleslaw, or pickles.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Brown Sugar Bourbon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Brown Sugar Bourbon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform your pulled pork game with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar, the warmth of bourbon, and the tenderizing power of a slow cooker. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider or chicken broth)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, bourbon, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before shredding with two forks.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Coca-Cola Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Coca-Cola Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pulled pork with a surprising twist – Coca-Cola! The result is tender, juicy meat infused with a rich, caramel-like flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, Coca-Cola, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. After cooking, use two forks to pull apart the pork into shreds.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-8 hours

Pineapple Teriyaki Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Pineapple Teriyaki Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform a tough cut of pork into tender, flavorful pulled pork with the help of your slow cooker and a hint of pineapple teriyaki magic. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free weekend dinner or a delicious lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. In a slow cooker, combine pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ground ginger.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker and coat with the sauce mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Maple Dijon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Maple Dijon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This Maple Dijon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe is a twist on the classic, with the added sweetness of maple syrup and tanginess of Dijon mustard. It’s perfect for a weekend gathering or casual dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Dr Pepper Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Dr Pepper Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Get ready to fall in love with this tender and flavorful pulled pork recipe, infused with the unique taste of Dr Pepper. This slow cooker meal is perfect for a relaxing Sunday dinner or a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) Dr Pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add the sliced onion on top.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Dr Pepper, brown sugar, garlic, and 1/4 cup water. Pour the mixture over the pork and onion.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Strain the juices from the slow cooker and discard any excess fat.
7. Serve the pulled pork with your favorite barbecue sauce, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Smoky Paprika Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Smoky Paprika Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform your slow cooker into a smoky haven with this tender and flavorful pulled pork recipe, infused with the rich aroma of paprika. This dish is perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. In a separate bowl, mix smoked paprika and brown sugar.
3. Rub the paprika mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)

Root Beer Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Root Beer Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Get ready for a sweet and tangy twist on classic pulled pork! This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the creamy sweetness of root beer, resulting in a tender and deliciously flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Asian-Inspired Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Asian-Inspired Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Elevate your pulled pork game with this flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Asia.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and five-spice powder.
3. Add the pork to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to coat with the flavorful sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.

Cooking Time: 4-8 hours

Jalapeño Lime Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Jalapeño Lime Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow cooking with a bold and tangy flavor profile, making it perfect for your next gathering. With the addition of jalapeños and lime juice, this pulled pork is sure to spice up your mealtime routine.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add the sliced jalapeños, lime juice, and chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Balsamic Glazed Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Balsamic Glazed Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Tender, flavorful pulled pork with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze – perfect for sandwiches, salads, or serving with your favorite sides.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the balsamic glaze over it.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from heat and use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve with additional balsamic glaze, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Cola and Chili Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Cola and Chili Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this easy-to-make slow cooker pulled pork recipe, infused with the flavors of cola and chili.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cola
– 1/4 cup chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, diced tomatoes, cola, chili sauce, brown sugar, and cumin.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. After 6 hours, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Coffee-Rubbed Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Coffee-Rubbed Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
A rich and savory twist on traditional pulled pork, this recipe combines the deep flavors of coffee with tender slow-cooked pork. Perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup ground coffee
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the pork shoulder.
5. Add the minced garlic on top of the pork.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Sweet and Tangy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Sweet and Tangy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Sweet and Tangy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: A Deliciously Easy Meal

This sweet and tangy pulled pork recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender meat that falls apart easily. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party food.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and spoon the sweet and tangy glaze all over it.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform tender pork into a flavorful pulled pork masterpiece with this easy and aromatic slow cooker recipe.

Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker, making sure it’s coated with the herb mixture.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Using two forks, shred the pork into tender strands.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Summary

Get ready to fall in love with these 18 tender slow cooker pulled pork recipes that pack a punch of bold flavors! From classic BBQ to spicy chipotle and sweet and tangy, there’s something for every palate. Try Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, Apple Cider Vinegar Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, or Brown Sugar Bourbon Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, just to name a few. Each recipe is easy to make and perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, spicy, smoky, or savory, these pulled pork recipes are sure to satisfy!

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