Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork: Sweet, Savory, and Seriously Simple

Nothing beats a pulled pork sandwich when it comes to comfort food, but throw in a can of Dr. Pepper, and you’ve just unlocked next-level flavor. This Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender, sweet and tangy, and unbelievably easy to make. Just set it, forget it, and prepare to impress your whole crew with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

This pulled pork is the ideal mix of ease and flavor. The soda helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with subtle sweetness that complements the tangy BBQ sauce. It’s a recipe I come back to anytime I need to feed a crowd or want satisfying leftovers for the week.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs. pork roast (shoulder or butt cut)
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• ½ tsp. onion powder
• 2 tsp. paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 can (12 oz.) Dr. Pepper
• ¾ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
• Buns for serving

Ingredient Swaps & Notes

• Pork: Bone-in or boneless both work; just adjust cook time if needed.
• BBQ Sauce: Use smoky, spicy, or sweet sauce based on your preference.
• Dr. Pepper: You can try other sodas like root beer or cola, but Dr. Pepper offers a unique depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork roast.
2. Layer the Crockpot: Place sliced onions on the bottom of your slow cooker and lay the pork roast on top.
3. Mix Sauce: Stir the BBQ sauce and Dr. Pepper together in a bowl, then pour it over the pork.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours or on low for 7–8 hours, until the meat is fall-apart tender.
5. Shred the Meat: Remove the pork and shred it using two forks.
6. Soak It Up: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it into the sauce.
7. Serve: Spoon onto buns and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the sear (if you have time): Searing the pork in a pan before slow cooking adds depth.
• Use a fat separator before returning the meat to the slow cooker if it seems greasy.
• Go low and slow if you have the time—it’s the best way to maximize tenderness.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve your pulled pork with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or pickles. For a heartier meal, pair it with:

• This Crockpot Nacho Dip for the ultimate party spread.
• Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a Tex-Mex twist on dinner.
• Dorito Casserole if you’re in the mood for comfort overload.

Storage & Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions with sauce in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce – because comfort food doesn’t stop at pork.
• Instant Pot Lasagna – another hands-off dinner wonder.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue, an easy weeknight dinner, or game day grub, this Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork is a guaranteed hit. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment below and don’t forget to follow for more easy, flavor-packed recipes.

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