Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork: A Sweet and Savory Feast

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal, this Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork is the answer! With a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for game days, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. I came across this gem on I Wuv Cooking, and it’s been a hit every time I’ve made it.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy your day.
  • Bold Flavors: Root beer, spices, and barbecue sauce create a sweet and smoky masterpiece.
  • Versatile: Serve it on buns, over rice, or with a side of coleslaw.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1 can (12 oz) root beer
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1-2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
  • For Serving: Buns

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pork
    Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and place it in the slow cooker.
  2. Add the Liquid Ingredients
    Pour the root beer, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard over the pork.
  3. Season the Pork
    In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pork.
  4. Cook the Pork
    Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Shred the Pork
    Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks, discarding any bones if applicable.
  6. Mix with Barbecue Sauce
    Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix in your desired amount of barbecue sauce. Stir to coat the pork evenly.
  7. Serve
    Serve the pulled pork on buns with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Pro Tips:

  • Crispy Option: Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes for crispy edges before mixing in the barbecue sauce.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: Use less root beer or add more vinegar if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
  • Freeze Leftovers: Pulled pork freezes well for up to 3 months—perfect for quick meals later.

This Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork is the perfect combination of ease and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Check out the original recipe on I Wuv Cooking and let me know how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends—they’ll love it as much as you do!