Get ready to fall in love with the rich, tender flavors of pulled pork! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a casual gathering with friends, these 20 mouthwatering recipes will be the star of your show. From classic Southern-style slow cooker recipes to bold and adventurous twists, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavor profiles and cooking techniques that will elevate your pulled pork game. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, grab your apron, and get ready to dig in!
Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Pulled Pork
Sweet and tangy, this slow cooker pulled pork recipe is perfect for a stress-free Sunday dinner or a quick weeknight meal. With minimal effort required, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful pork in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add the seasoned pork shoulder to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Apple Cider Vinegar Pulled Pork
Elevate your pulled pork game with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the tanginess of apple cider vinegar with a kick of heat, making it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the vinegar mixture over it.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove pork from slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Smoked Bourbon Pulled Pork Shoulder
A classic Southern dish gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of smoky bourbon, resulting in tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just snacking on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before shredding with two forks.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Coca-Cola Braised Pulled Pork
Coca-Cola Braised Pulled Pork: A Twist on a Classic Recipe
Rich, tender pork shoulder meets the sweetness of Coca-Cola in this unique braising recipe. With a hint of spice and a depth of flavor, this pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or serving alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped onion, 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork shoulder, Coca-Cola, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before shredding the pork with two forks.
5. Serve on your favorite bun, in tacos, or alongside sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Chipotle Maple Pulled Pork Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and smoky recipe that combines the richness of pulled pork with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
– Cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, chipotle peppers, maple syrup, olive oil, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover with lid.
3. Cook for 6-8 hours or until pork is tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred pork with two forks and strain juices to remove excess fat.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with shredded pork, lime wedges, and cilantro (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Brown Sugar Pecan Pulled Pork Sliders
Brown Sugar Pecan Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe
Savory pulled pork meets sweet and nutty flavors in these mouthwatering sliders.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 6-8 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in chopped pecans.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto toasted buns.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Coconut Milk and Ginger Pulled Pork
Elevate your pulled pork game with this unique fusion of coconut milk and ginger. This sweet and savory recipe is perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, grated ginger, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Cover the dish and braise for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before pulling apart and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pineapple Jalapeño Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Elevate your pulled pork game with the sweet and spicy combination of pineapple and jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, diced
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Add pineapple juice and diced jalapeños.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and mix well to combine with juices and spices.
7. Split hamburger buns in half and toast or grill until lightly browned.
8. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto buns, topped with coleslaw or pickles if desired.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Guinness Beer Pulled Pork Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this indulgent recipe that combines the smoothness of Guinness beer with the tender sweetness of pulled pork. This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup Guinness beer
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pork shoulder, Guinness beer, and barbecue sauce.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Meanwhile, arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
5. Top with pulled pork, cheddar cheese, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (2-3 hours for pulled pork) + 10-12 minutes for assembly.
Korean Gochujang Pulled Pork Bowls
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavors of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and tender pulled pork. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorful bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup gochujang
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cups cooked white rice or noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Add water to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic Butter Pulled Pork Stuffed Buns
Elevate your pulled pork game with these scrumptious buns, packed with tender pork, rich garlic butter, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 4 soft buns (e.g., dinner rolls or hamburger buns)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and honey until well combined.
3. Split the buns in half lengthwise.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of pulled pork onto each bun half, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the pork, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Place the stuffed buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the butter is melted and the buns are toasted.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Espresso Rubbed Pulled Pork Carnitas
This recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso with the tender, slow-cooked goodness of pulled pork carnitas. The result is a deeply flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup espresso powder
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together espresso powder, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat the lard or oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before shredding and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Orange Zest and Star Anise Pulled Pork
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork shoulder with the brightness of orange zest and the warmth of star anise, resulting in a tender and aromatic pulled pork perfect for sandwiches or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 star anise pods, crushed
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together orange zest, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Add crushed star anise pods and apple cider vinegar to the pot.
6. Cover and braise for 8-10 hours or overnight.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Dry Rub Memphis-Style Pulled Pork
Experience the rich flavors of Memphis-style barbecue with this simple and delicious pulled pork recipe. Perfect for a backyard gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
• 1/4 cup dry rub (see below)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Dry Rub:
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 cup black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the dry rub ingredients.
3. Rub the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the smoker or grill and cook for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
5. Remove the pork from heat and let it rest for 15 minutes before pulling it apart with two forks.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Crispy Coca-Cola Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese
A sweet and savory twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the richness of pulled pork with the crunch of a crispy Coca-Cola topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Coca-Cola (from can or bottle)
– 1 lb pulled pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add pulled pork to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the pork-cheese mixture.
6. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Mix Coca-Cola and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni mixture.
8. Top with breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carolina Gold Mustard Pulled Pork Pizza
Experience the rich flavors of the Carolinas on a crispy pizza crust with this unique combination of slow-cooked pulled pork, tangy mustard, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Carolina Gold Mustard (or similar)
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup pulled pork
– 1 pizza crust
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, Carolina Gold Mustard, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Cook on low for 8 hours or until tender.
3. Shred the pulled pork with two forks and set aside.
4. Roll out pizza crust to desired thickness. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the pulled pork.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 15-20 minutes (pizza baking)
Pulled Pork Adobo with Fried Garlic Rice
A Filipino-inspired dish that combines the tender flavors of pulled pork with a savory adobo sauce, served alongside crispy fried garlic rice.
Ingredients:
For the Pulled Pork Adobo:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Fried Garlic Rice:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3-4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until pork is tender.
4. For the Fried Garlic Rice, heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high. Add garlic slices and cook until crispy, stirring frequently. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve pulled pork adobo alongside fried garlic rice.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (pork) + 10 minutes (garlic rice)
Miso Caramel Glazed Pulled Pork Bao
Miso Caramel Glazed Pulled Pork Bao: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Traditional Pulled Pork
This recipe combines the tender, fall-apart texture of slow-cooked pulled pork with the sweet and savory flavors of miso caramel glaze, all wrapped up in soft and fluffy bao buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 8 bao buns
– Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cover with the miso glaze.
4. Cook for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Assemble the bao by spreading the pulled pork onto the buns and garnishing with green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Pomegranate Molasses Pulled Pork Flatbread
Pomegranate Molasses Pulled Pork Flatbread: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of pulled pork with the tangy flavor of pomegranate molasses, all wrapped up in a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a unique dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– Toppings: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced red onion
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any remaining juices.
6. Warm the flatbread according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the flatbread by spreading a layer of pulled pork on each piece, followed by toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker or Dutch oven), plus additional time for assembling flatbreads.
Five-Spice Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
Elevate your egg roll game with this unique fusion of Chinese and Southern flavors. Slow-cooked pulled pork, five-spice powder, and crispy egg rolls come together in a harmonious bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 package egg roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and five-spice powder.
3. Cover the pot and braise the pork for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the egg roll wrappers according to package instructions, then fill with pulled pork and fold into triangles.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours total (including braising time)
Summary
Get ready to impress your crowd with these mouth-watering pulled pork recipes! From sweet and sticky to spicy and smoky, we’ve got you covered. Discover recipes like Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Pulled Pork, Spicy Apple Cider Vinegar Pulled Pork, and Smoked Bourbon Pulled Pork Shoulder. Try your hand at unique flavors like Chipotle Maple Pulled Pork Tacos or Coconut Milk and Ginger Pulled Pork. Whatever the occasion, these 20 juicy pulled pork recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.