🎅🔥 Santa’s BBQ Delight: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
Known around here as “Santa’s BBQ Delight” — it’s so good, even the elves asked for seconds! 🎄✨
There’s nothing quite like the rich, smoky flavor of pulled pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe delivers juicy, tender meat packed with BBQ goodness — and the best part? It practically makes itself! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. 🍽️
🛒 Ingredients
◾️ 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt)
◾️ 1 large onion, sliced
◾️ 4 cloves garlic, minced
◾️ 1 tbsp paprika
◾️ 1 tbsp brown sugar
◾️ 1 tsp salt
◾️ 1 tsp black pepper
◾️ ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
◾️ ½ cup apple cider vinegar
◾️ 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
◾️ ½ cup water or chicken broth
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Pork
Trim excess fat if desired. In a small bowl, mix paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Rub the seasoning evenly over the pork.
2️⃣ Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the seasoned pork on top.
3️⃣ Add the Liquid
Pour in apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, and water or chicken broth.
4️⃣ Cook Low & Slow
On Low: 8–10 hours
On High: 5–6 hours
Cook until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5️⃣ Shred & Mix
Remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Discard any large fatty pieces. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and stir into the sauce until fully coated.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve on toasted buns, over fluffy rice, or alongside creamy coleslaw for a classic BBQ plate.
🍽️ Serving Notes
Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months — just thaw and reheat with a splash of BBQ sauce.
For an extra smoky twist, add ½ tsp liquid smoke or use smoked paprika in the rub.
🔥 4 Chef Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork
1️⃣ Choose the Right Cut:
Pork shoulder (or pork butt) has the perfect balance of fat and muscle for tender, juicy results.
2️⃣ Don’t Rush the Cook:
Low and slow is the secret — resist the urge to lift the lid too often, or you’ll lose heat and moisture.
3️⃣ Sauce It Smart:
If you like a thicker, stickier pulled pork, simmer the sauce uncovered for 10–15 minutes after shredding to reduce it slightly.
4️⃣ Finish with Freshness:
A squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a bright, unexpected contrast to the smoky BBQ richness.
🎄Santa’s BBQ Delight” is more than just a pulled pork recipe — it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings that smoky, savory magic every time.
Serve it warm, pile it high, and get ready for smiles all around. 🍔✨
It’s BBQ so good — even the elves want seconds! 🎅🔥
