Have you heard of the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond? It’s almost a rhetorical question, isn’t it? This culinary queen is practically synonymous with delicious, down-to-earth home cooking. From her wildly popular blog to her numerous cookbooks, Food Network show, and even her own product lines, the Pioneer Woman has built an empire on approachable and flavorful recipes. If you’re a fan of hearty, family-friendly meals, you’re likely already acquainted with her work. Today, we’re diving into one of her classics, the Pulled Pork recipe, but with a convenient twist: we’re adapting it for the crock pot!
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Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
Like many home cooks, I adore the Pioneer Woman’s recipes. Her cookbooks are staples in my kitchen, filled with recipes that are both delicious and easy to follow. One thing I particularly appreciate about her cookbooks is the inclusion of step-by-step photos – it’s incredibly helpful! Recently, while browsing through one of her books, the Classic Pulled Pork recipe caught my eye. I found a Boston Butt roast on sale at my local grocery store and knew instantly what I wanted to make.
Boston Butt Pork Roast for Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe
However, the original Pioneer Woman recipe calls for a 10-hour oven cooking time. Ten hours! In today’s busy world, finding that much uninterrupted cooking time can be a challenge. Plus, sometimes you just want the set-it-and-forget-it ease of a slow cooker. That’s why I decided to adapt her amazing recipe for the crock pot. For those interested in the original oven-baked version, you can find it here.
Pioneer Woman Inspired Crock Pot Pulled Pork: A Simple Recipe
This crock pot pulled pork recipe captures the essence of the Pioneer Woman’s classic flavors while streamlining the cooking process. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or any gathering where you need to feed a crowd with minimal fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming a tough cut of pork into tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Affiliate Links Included):
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering crock pot pulled pork. Using quality ingredients will enhance the flavor, so choose the best you can find.
- 5lb 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 incredibly tender and juicy meat.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps create a delicious caramelized crust. Find brown sugar here
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder: Provides a smoky depth and mild heat. Get chili powder here
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder: Essential for savory flavor. Garlic powder link
- 2 tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors and is crucial for seasoning the pork. Salt option here
- 1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity. Black pepper link (The original recipe includes cayenne, but we’re omitting it for a milder flavor profile, feel free to add a pinch if you like heat!)
- 1 Onion, Chopped: Adds moisture and flavor to the pork as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor.
- 1/4 cup Ketchup: Contributes to the tangy and slightly sweet sauce.
- Potato Buns: For serving – potato buns are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for pulled pork sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Crock Pot Pulled Pork Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create delicious, Pioneer Woman-inspired pulled pork in your crock pot.
- Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
- Season the Pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the Boston Butt, ensuring every surface is coated. Place the seasoned pork in your crock pot. Using a crock pot liner can make cleanup a breeze! I personally use this crock pot and it works perfectly.
Seasoned Boston Butt in Crock Pot for Pulled Pork
- Add Onions: Scatter the chopped onion over and around the pork in the crock pot.
Adding Onions to Crock Pot Pulled Pork
- Sauces In: Pour the BBQ sauce and ketchup over the pork and onions. Don’t be afraid to use your favorite BBQ sauce – it will significantly impact the final flavor profile!
Adding BBQ Sauce and Ketchup to Crock Pot Pulled Pork
- Add Water & Cook: Pour about 2 cups of water into the crock pot. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours. Cooking times can vary based on your crock pot and the size/fat content of your pork, so check for doneness periodically. The pork is ready when it’s easily shredded with a fork.
Crock Pot Pulled Pork Ready to Cook
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Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crock pot and place it in a large serving bowl. Shred the pork using two forks. It will be incredibly tender and should fall apart easily. You’ll notice there’s a good amount of cooking liquid in the crock pot – you can discard some of it if you prefer less saucy pulled pork.
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Serve and Enjoy! Serve the pulled pork on potato buns. Potato buns are my favorite, but any hamburger bun will work. Add your favorite toppings like coleslaw or pickles for a complete pulled pork sandwich experience.
Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Pulled Pork on Potato Buns
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe
This crock pot pulled pork recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly easy, requiring minimal hands-on time. The slow cooker method ensures the pork is fall-apart tender and infused with flavor. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! In fact, I often judge a recipe’s success by my husband’s consumption. He devoured 4.5 of these pulled pork sandwiches! Need I say more?
Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
Don’t forget to save this recipe for later! Happy CrockPotting!
Want another easy and delicious recipe? Check out these Sloppy Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!
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