Smoky Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Shredded pulled pork in a slow cooker with black tongs resting on the meat.

4.20 from 5 votes

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is both simple and delicious. Combining this pulled pork dry rub with the low and slow cooking process produces the best pulled pork without using a smoker.

Prep Time15

Cook Time8

marinate12

Total Time20 15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 421kcal

Author: Keri

Ingredients

For the spice rub

2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper use more or less for desired heat
2 teaspoon Chipotle Chili Powder or Adobo seasoning powder
1 teaspoon Cumin
2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
2 teaspoons Salt
4 pounds Pork Shoulder or pork butt
¼ cup Apple Juice or water

Instructions

Trim off the larger chunks of fat off of the piece of pork.
Mix together all the dry ingredients for the pulled pork dry rub.
Rub the smoky seasoning mix all over the pork. Put the seasoned pork into a baggie or cover and refrigerate overnight. I like to let it set at least 12 hours.
In the morning, let the pork set on the counter for about 30 minutes or so to start to come to room temperature.
Spray the slow cooker pot with nonstick cooking spray.
Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker. Add the apple juice or water.
Cook the Slow Cooker Pulled Pork on low for 6 to 8 hours. When the internal temperature reaches between 200° and 205° F. it is ready to shred.
After shredding the pork, serve as desired!

Notes

Remember to trim off the larger chunks of fat before adding the dry rub.

Try using the pulled pork in other ways than just a sandwich. Quesadillas, pulled pork bowl with rice or slaw, as a protein side with your eggs or pancakes at breakfast!

Optional - For an even smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke with the apple juice.

Nutrition