Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe - Ultra Juicy & Easy
Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe - Ultra Juicy & Easy! is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by The Urban Cowgirl on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 8 hrs | Total: 8 hrs 35 min
Cost: $39.83 total, $6.64 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 lb Pork Butt (Boston Butt) (Bone‑in, trimmed of excess fat)
- 1 packet Smoky Pork Rub (Pioneer Foods Texas brand, about 2 oz)
- 2 cup Cola (Any brand – Coca‑Cola, Dr Pepper, ginger ale, root beer, etc.)
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Any brand, adjust to taste)
Instructions
Trim and Dry Pork
Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels and trim any large pieces of excess fat.
Time: PT5M
Apply Smoky Pork Rub
Sprinkle the entire packet of Smoky Pork Rub over the pork and rub it in evenly on all sides.
Time: PT5M
Add Pork and Cola to Crock Pot
Place the seasoned pork into the crock pot and pour in 2 cups of cola.
Time: PT3M
Cook the Pork
Set the crock pot to low/medium and cook for 8 hours (or high for 4‑5 hours).
Time: PT8H
Drain Excess Grease
When the pork is done, remove it and drain off most of the liquid, leaving a little for moisture.
Time: PT5M
Add Barbecue Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of barbecue sauce, mixing thoroughly with two forks.
Time: PT5M
Shred the Pork
Using two forks, pull the pork apart until it is fully shredded and coated with sauce.
Time: PT5M
Serve or Store
Serve the pulled pork on rolls, tacos, nachos, or quesadillas. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 15 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Contains pork, Gluten‑Free if using gluten‑free BBQ sauce, Nut‑Free
Allergens: Soy (in some BBQ sauces), Gluten (if BBQ sauce contains wheat)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pork Butt (Boston Butt): Pork Shoulder, Pork Butt (boneless)
- Instead of Smoky Pork Rub: Any BBQ pork rub, Homemade pork rub
- Instead of Cola: Apple juice, Cider
- Instead of Barbecue Sauce: Homemade BBQ sauce, Honey mustard sauce
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Measuring Cups
- Large Fork or Tongs
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Spoon (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Trim and Dry Pork
- Apply Smoky Pork Rub
- Cook the Pork
- Drain Excess Grease
- Shred the Pork
Chef Tips from the Video
- A bone‑in butt adds extra flavor; you can remove the bone after cooking if desired.
- For a deeper smoky flavor, use a cola with a hint of vanilla or a dark root beer.
- Let the shredded pork rest for a few minutes after mixing in sauce; this helps the flavors meld.
Troubleshooting
Pork is not tender enough.
Continue cooking on low for another 30‑60 minutes or add a splash more cola or broth.
The sauce is too watery.
After draining excess grease, reduce the liquid by simmering the pork uncovered for 10‑15 minutes before adding sauce.
Storage
Refrigerator: 3–4 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Up to 3 months, tightly sealed
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; refrigerate promptly
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the pork a day ahead and store in the fridge; flavors improve overnight.
- Freeze shredded pork in portion‑size bags for quick meals later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of pulled pork in American Southern cuisine?
Pulled pork originates from the Southern United States where pork shoulder was slow‑cooked over wood fires or in pits. The technique of shredding the meat made it easy to serve large groups, and it became a staple at barbecues, holidays, and community gatherings.
What regional variations of pulled pork exist within Texas and the broader Southern United States?
In Central Texas, the focus is on a simple dry rub and smoke, while East Texas often adds a sweet, tomato‑based sauce. North Carolina prefers a vinegar‑based sauce, and Memphis style mixes sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe leans toward a Central Texas dry‑rub style with a finishing BBQ sauce.
How is pulled pork traditionally served in Texas gatherings?
Texans typically serve pulled pork on soft hamburger buns or Hawaiian rolls, accompanied by pickles, coleslaw, and a side of beans. It’s also common on tacos, nachos, and as a topping for baked potatoes at casual gatherings.
What occasions or celebrations is pulled pork traditionally associated with in American culture?
Pulled pork is a go‑to dish for Fourth of July barbecues, football tailgates, family reunions, and holiday meals because it can be prepared ahead and feeds a crowd with minimal last‑minute effort.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Texas pulled pork versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic Texas pulled pork uses a pork butt or shoulder, a simple rub of salt, pepper, paprika, brown sugar, and cumin, and a smoky flavor from wood. Substitutes like pre‑made rubs (such as the Pioneer Foods Smoky Pork Rub) work well, and cola can replace traditional apple juice for sweetness.
What other Southern dishes pair well with this crock pot pulled pork?
Serve it alongside classic sides like baked beans, corn on the cob, coleslaw, mac & cheese, or cornbread for a complete Southern comfort meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Crock Pot Pulled Pork?
Common errors include cooking on high for too long, which can dry the meat, and not draining excess grease, which makes the final dish greasy. Also, avoid adding too much sauce before the pork is fully shredded, as it can prevent proper coating.
Why does this recipe use cola instead of traditional apple juice or broth?
Cola adds a subtle caramel sweetness and acidity that helps break down connective tissue, while also contributing a faint spice note that complements the smoky rub. It also balances the salt and sugar in the rub without overwhelming the flavor.
Can I make this Crock Pot Pulled Pork ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can cook it a day ahead. Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion and freeze for up to 3 months; reheat gently with a splash of liquid.
What does the YouTube channel The Urban Cowgirl specialize in?
The Urban Cowgirl focuses on approachable, family‑friendly American comfort food, often featuring quick weeknight meals, outdoor grilling tips, and rustic recipes that fit a busy lifestyle.
How does the YouTube channel The Urban Cowgirl's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?
The Urban Cowgirl emphasizes minimal‑prep, equipment‑light methods—like using a crock pot instead of a smoker—while still delivering authentic flavor, making Southern dishes accessible for home cooks without a dedicated outdoor pit.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
