Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork

This Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork is sweet, savory, and incredibly tender. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor!

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Pulled Pork

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 8

Total Time: 8 10

Servings:

Calories: 420kcal

Equipment

Crockpot

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