Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is beloved for her approachable style and delicious, family-friendly recipes. Among her many culinary hits, her pulled pork recipe stands out. However, the original recipe calls for a lengthy oven cooking time. For busy home cooks, especially those craving that tender, flavorful pork with less fuss, a crockpot adaptation is the perfect solution. This guide will walk you through creating a mouthwatering Pioneer Woman inspired pulled pork in your crockpot, ensuring a hassle-free and incredibly tasty meal.
Do you love the Pioneer Woman
Why Choose the Crockpot for Pulled Pork?
While traditional oven-roasted pulled pork is undeniably delicious, the crockpot method offers significant advantages:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once prepped, the crockpot does all the work. You can set it and forget it, freeing you up for other tasks or simply relaxing.
- Time-Saving (Active Time): Although the total cook time is still several hours, the active preparation time is minimal, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
- Tender and Juicy Results: The slow, gentle cooking process in a crockpot breaks down the pork beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pulled pork that practically melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Beginners: Crockpot cooking is forgiving and straightforward, making this recipe accessible even for novice cooks.
Pioneer Woman Inspired Crockpot Pulled Pork Recipe
This recipe adapts the essence of Pioneer Woman’s classic pulled pork, focusing on ease and deliciousness in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 5 lb Boston Butt (Pork Shoulder) – This cut is ideal for pulled pork due to its marbling and fat content, which renders beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a delicious bark on the pork. High-quality brown sugar for depth of flavor is recommended.
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder – Provides a smoky and slightly spicy flavor base. Authentic chili powder for robust taste will enhance the dish.
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory notes of the pork. Pure garlic powder for consistent flavor is key.
- 2 tsp Salt – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the pork’s natural flavors. Fine sea salt for even seasoning is ideal.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper for optimal aroma is preferred.
- 1 Onion, chopped – Adds moisture and savory depth to the cooking liquid, infusing the pork with flavor.
Pioneer Woman Classic Pulled Pork Adapted for the CrockPot Recipe – Boston Butt
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce – Use your favorite brand to customize the flavor profile. Experiment with smoky, sweet, or tangy sauces.
- 1/4 cup Ketchup – Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the BBQ sauce.
- 2 cups Water – Provides the necessary liquid for slow cooking and keeps the pork moist.
- Potato Buns or Hamburger Buns – For serving and creating delicious pulled pork sandwiches.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
Pioneer Woman Classic Pulled Pork Adapted for the CrockPot Recipe Ingredients
- Season the Pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the Boston Butt, ensuring every surface is generously coated. This spice rub creates a flavorful crust and penetrates the pork as it cooks.
Pioneer Woman Classic Pulled Pork Adapted for the CrockPot Recipe 2
- Crockpot Setup: Place the chopped onion in the bottom of your crockpot. This elevates the pork slightly and adds flavor to the cooking liquid. Place the seasoned Boston Butt on top of the onions. Consider using a crockpot liner for easier cleanup.
- Add Liquids: Pour the BBQ sauce, ketchup, and water into the crockpot. The liquid should come about halfway up the pork.
Pioneer Woman Classic Pulled Pork Adapted for the CrockPot Recipe
-
Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot and the size of the pork shoulder. The internal temperature should reach 195-205°F (90-96°C) for optimal tenderness. A reliable crockpot ensures even cooking.
-
Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and place it in a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the pork. Discard any excess fat and bone.
-
Combine and Serve: Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with the cooking liquid to keep it moist and flavorful. Serve hot on potato buns or hamburger buns, and enjoy!
Pioneer Woman Classic Pulled Pork Adapted for the Crockpot
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pulled Pork:
- Don’t Trim Too Much Fat: The fat in the Boston Butt is crucial for flavor and moisture. While you can trim some excess fat, leave most of it on as it will render down during cooking, basting the pork from within.
- Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): For a deeper, more complex flavor, you can sear the pork shoulder in a skillet before placing it in the crockpot. This step is not necessary but adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cooking liquid after shredding the pork and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a bit more BBQ sauce, salt, or pepper to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it on buns for classic sandwiches, in tacos, over nachos, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Consider serving with coleslaw, potato salad, or mac and cheese for a complete BBQ meal.
Enjoy Your Pioneer Woman Crockpot Pulled Pork!
This Pioneer Woman inspired crockpot pulled pork recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve up delicious, tender, and satisfying BBQ. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of effortless, flavorful pulled pork right from your own kitchen.
