Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork: Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible
Get ready to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork! This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of pork with the sweet, caramel-like notes of root beer, creating a dish that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even on its own, this pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving comfort food, this recipe is a must-try!
Root beer pulled pork is a classic American dish with roots in Southern barbecue traditions. The soda not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory spices. Plus, using a slow cooker means minimal effort for maximum flavor. Let’s dive in and make this delicious dish!
Why This Recipe Works
1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work for you! Just set it and forget it. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Customizable Flavors: While root beer is the star of this recipe, you can easily tweak the flavors to suit your taste. Add more spice, swap the soda for another flavor, or experiment with different barbecue sauces for a unique twist.
3. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it on buns for sandwiches, in tacos, or alongside your favorite sides. It’s a hit at parties, potlucks, and family dinners alike.
What’s In Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork?
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pork Shoulder: The star of the dish! Pork shoulder is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Root Beer: Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat. Use a high-quality root beer for the best results.
- Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the root beer.
- Spices: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper enhances the savory flavors.
- Buns or Tortillas: For serving. Choose your favorite type!
How To Make Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork
This recipe is as easy as it gets! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most tender and flavorful pulled pork.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season it generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Slow Cook
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- Pour root beer over the pork, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
Step 3: Shred and Sauce
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Discard the cooking liquid or reserve a small amount for added moisture.
- Toss the shredded pork with your favorite barbecue sauce until well coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Pile the pulled pork onto buns or tortillas, and top with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite toppings.
Sides for Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork
Pair your pulled pork with these delicious sides:
- Classic Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the pork.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side that complements the smoky flavors.
- Pickles: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet and savory pork.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use a Different Soda?
Yes! Dr. Pepper, cola, or even ginger ale can be used as substitutes for root beer. Each will add a slightly different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes. Shred and sauce as usual.
Other Recipes To Try
- Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork: A tropical twist on pulled pork with sweet and tangy flavors.
- Slow Cooker Mole Chili: A Rich and Flavorful Comfort Dish
- Smoky Chipotle Pulled Chicken: A lighter alternative with a spicy kick.
- Mango Habanero Chicken Wings: Sweet and spicy wings with a tropical twist.
- Korean BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos: Fusion flavors with a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce.
- Pulled Pork Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: A unique and hearty way to enjoy pulled pork.
If you like the look of this, try our 14 Must-Try Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 lbs 1.4 kg pork shoulder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups root beer
- 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce
- 6 buns or tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Slow Cook: Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour root beer over it. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until tender.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard the cooking liquid or reserve a small amount.
- Add Sauce: Toss the shredded pork with barbecue sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Pile the pulled pork onto buns or tortillas and top with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Make Ahead: The pork can be cooked and shredded a day in advance. Reheat with barbecue sauce before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze shredded pork (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Soda Substitutes: Use Dr. Pepper, cola, or ginger ale if you don’t have root beer.
- Instant Pot Option: Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!