The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, is a household name for easy, delicious, and family-friendly recipes. Among her many culinary hits, her pulled pork recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser. While the original recipe calls for oven roasting, we’re adapting it for the ultimate convenience: the crock pot. This slow cooker version of Pioneer Woman’s pulled pork is incredibly tender, flavorful, and perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or piled high on a plate. Get ready for a fuss-free, mouthwatering meal that will become a new family favorite.
Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
This recipe is inspired by Ree Drummond’s classic pulled pork, found in her popular cookbooks and on the Food Network. Her recipes are beloved for their approachability and comforting flavors, and this crock pot adaptation is no exception. By using a slow cooker, we simplify the cooking process, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. You’ll get that same deep, smoky flavor with minimal effort.
Preparing Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Pulled Pork:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful pulled pork, easily adapted for your crock pot:
- 5 lb Boston Butt (Pork Shoulder): The star of the show, Boston Butt, or pork shoulder, is perfect for pulled pork due to its marbling and rich flavor when slow-cooked.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a delicious caramelized crust.
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder: Provides a smoky depth and mild heat to the rub.
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory notes of the pork.
- 2 tsp Salt: Essential for seasoning and tenderizing the meat.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity.
- 1 Onion, Chopped: Adds moisture and flavor as the pork slow cooks.
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce will add tanginess and classic pulled pork flavor.
- 1/4 cup Ketchup: Contributes to the sauce’s sweetness and thickness.
- Potato Buns (or your favorite buns): For serving up delicious pulled pork sandwiches.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Pulled Pork:
Follow these simple steps to make Pioneer Woman inspired pulled pork in your crock pot:
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the Pork: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the Boston Butt, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Place in Crock Pot: Place the seasoned pork butt in your crock pot. For easy cleanup, consider using a crock pot liner.
- Add Onion: Scatter the chopped onion around the pork in the crock pot.
- Add Sauces: Pour BBQ sauce and ketchup over the pork and onions.
Adding BBQ sauce and ketchup to Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
- Add Water: Pour 2 cups of water into the crock pot. This will help create steam and keep the pork moist during slow cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on your crock pot and the size of the pork butt. The pork is ready when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds.
Slow cooking Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork in a Crock Pot
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crock pot and place it in a large serving bowl. Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any excess fat.
- Serve: Serve the delicious Pioneer Woman inspired pulled pork on potato buns or your favorite hamburger buns.
Shredding Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Pulled Pork:
- Don’t Overcook: While slow cooking is forgiving, check the pork periodically after 4 hours on high to prevent it from becoming too dry. It should be easily shredded but not mushy.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For guaranteed tenderness, the internal temperature of the pork should reach 195-205°F (90-96°C) when fully cooked.
- Flavor Boost: For an even richer flavor, you can sear the pork butt in a skillet before placing it in the crock pot. This step is optional but adds depth.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Pioneer Woman pulled pork on toasted potato buns with your favorite coleslaw, pickles, and extra BBQ sauce. It’s also fantastic in tacos, nachos, or over baked potatoes.
Serving Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe on Buns
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Pioneer Woman Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe
