There’s nothing quite like the smell of slow-cooked pulled pork wafting through the air at a cookout—tender, smoky, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that turns a simple gathering into a feast. Whether you’re firing up the smoker, using your trusty slow cooker, or going for a quick oven-braised version, pulled pork is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. But with so many ways to season, sauce, and serve it, how do you pick the perfect recipe to wow your guests?
We’ve got you covered with 12 mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork recipes that range from classic Southern-style to bold, unexpected twists. Picture this: juicy pork shoulder shredded to perfection, drenched in a sticky-sweet Kansas City glaze, or piled high on a bun with tangy Carolina mustard sauce. Maybe you’re craving something with a little kick—like a chipotle-honey version with just the right amount of heat—or perhaps a tropical-inspired pulled pork with pineapple and jalapeños for a sweet-and-spicy punch.
No matter your preference, these recipes guarantee fall-apart tenderness and layers of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds). We’ve even included pro tips on the best cuts of meat, foolproof cooking methods, and creative serving ideas—think loaded nachos, sliders, or even pulled pork-stuffed baked potatoes. So grab your favorite BBQ tools, stock up on napkins (because things are about to get messy), and get ready to make your next cookout unforgettable.
Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork Bowls
If you’re looking to add a twist to your BBQ pulled pork, try these Asian-inspired pulled pork bowls. They combine savory, tender pulled pork with a mix of vibrant vegetables and perfectly cooked rice, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The flavors are bold yet balanced, bringing a unique taste to your cookout.
Making these bowls is straightforward, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Just slow-cook the pork, whip up a quick sauce, and assemble the bowls with fresh veggies. Perfect for any outdoor gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: In a slow cooker, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add the pork shoulder, coating it well. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a pan, sauté the sliced bell pepper and snap peas until just tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble the Bowls: Serve the jasmine rice in bowls, topped with the pulled pork, sautéed vegetables, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork
Maple Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork is an exciting twist on a classic recipe that combines the rich flavors of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup. This dish is both savory and sweet, offering a perfect balance that will impress your guests at any cookout. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
Cooking this pulled pork results in tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich color and deep flavor. Serve it on a bun or alongside some coleslaw for a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spices in to ensure even flavor.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix the maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined.
- Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker or a roasting pan. Pour the glaze over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Meat: Once done, remove the pork from the cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix in some of the leftover glaze for added flavor.
- Serve: Pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Enjoy!
Buffalo Pulled Pork Sliders
Buffalo pulled pork sliders are the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. These tasty bites bring a kick with buffalo sauce mixed into tender pulled pork, all tucked inside soft slider buns. They’re easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for your next cookout or game day gathering.
These sliders are not only delicious but also simple to prepare. You can make the pulled pork in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, allowing you to focus on other party preparations. Serve them up with a drizzle of ranch dressing and some crunchy celery on the side for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
- Ranch dressing for topping
- Celery sticks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the buffalo sauce and chicken broth over the pork. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. For an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 60 minutes and allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the pot.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spoon the buffalo pulled pork onto slider buns and drizzle with ranch dressing.
- Serve: Enjoy with crispy celery sticks on the side!
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Classic BBQ pulled pork sandwiches combine smoky, tender pork with a sweet and tangy sauce, creating a hearty treat that’s perfect for any cookout. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a delicious experience. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy great food without spending all day in the kitchen.
Serve this pulled pork on soft buns, topped with crunchy coleslaw for added texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together, whether you’re at a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a casual dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Buns for serving
- Coleslaw for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Rub: In a bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar over the top. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, adding in barbecue sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Serve: Spoon the pulled pork onto buns and top with coleslaw. Enjoy your classic BBQ pulled pork sandwiches!
Carolina Mustard Sauce Pulled Pork
Carolina Mustard Sauce Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on the classic BBQ pulled pork. This dish features tender, slow-cooked pork drizzled with a tangy mustard-based sauce, embodying the bold flavors of the South. The mustard sauce adds a unique twist, balancing sweetness with a delightful kick, making it a hit for any cookout.
This recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also simple to prepare. With a bit of patience for the slow cooking process, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Serve it on a bun with some coleslaw for the perfect summer bite!
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Buns for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and mix in the mustard sauce.
- Serve: Spoon the pulled pork onto buns and drizzle with additional mustard sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious Carolina-style BBQ!
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pulled Pork
This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pulled Pork recipe is a delightful twist on the classic BBQ favorite. It combines the smoky, tender pulled pork with the vibrant flavors of pineapple and a hint of spice, creating a dish that is both sweet and savory. Perfect for cookouts, this recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and letting the slow cooker do most of the work!
The balance of juicy pineapple and spicy jalapeños gives this pulled pork a refreshing kick that will keep your guests coming back for more. Whether served on a bun or eaten straight from the plate, this dish is sure to become a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 fresh pineapple, sliced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Cook the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Add Pineapple: About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh pineapple slices to the slow cooker to warm through.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce and pineapple.
- Serve: Top with sliced jalapeños, if desired, and enjoy on buns or on its own!
Apple Cider Vinegar Pulled Pork
Apple cider vinegar pulled pork brings a delightful tang and depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a perfect balance that is both juicy and tender. Plus, it’s simple to make, allowing you to focus on enjoying your cookout with friends and family.
This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal option for busy weekends. With the right spices and a slow cooker, you can achieve mouthwatering pulled pork that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Let’s get into the details and make some delicious pulled pork!
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 onion, sliced
- Buns and coleslaw for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Rub the spices all over the meat for even flavor.
- Set Up the Cooker: Place sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the seasoned pork shoulder on top, then pour in the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix in some of the cooking juices for extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Pile the pulled pork onto buns and top with coleslaw for a classic serve. Enjoy your tangy and flavorful pulled pork!
Smoky Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos
These Smoky Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos are a crowd-pleaser at any cookout. The blend of smoky spices and the rich flavor of slow-cooked pork creates a deliciously tender filling. Each bite is a burst of flavor, balanced by the freshness of toppings like cilantro and lime. This recipe is straightforward, making it easy to whip up for your next gathering.
The chipotle adds a smoky heat that elevates the pulled pork to a new level. The combination of flavors makes these tacos irresistible and perfect for any taco night. Enjoy them with your favorite sides or as a main dish for a fun and festive meal!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Your favorite salsa, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: In a small bowl, mix chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Slow Cook: Place the seared pork in a slow cooker and pour chicken broth over it. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to absorb the juices for additional flavor.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
- Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of pulled pork. Top with fresh cilantro, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
Spicy Dijon Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps
Spicy Dijon Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy BBQ flavors while keeping things light and fresh. The pulled pork is marinated in a zesty Dijon mustard sauce, giving it a kick that pairs perfectly with crisp lettuce leaves. These wraps are not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them a hit for any cookout.
The combination of tender, spiced meat with the crunch of lettuce and fresh veggies creates a delightful bite. Perfect for a summer gathering, these wraps are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over it. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker to soak up the juices for an additional 15 minutes.
- Assemble Wraps: To serve, scoop the shredded pork into the butter lettuce leaves. Top with diced bell peppers, sliced red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
Zesty BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza
Imagine a delicious pizza topped with tender, BBQ pulled pork, a tangy sauce, and fresh herbs. This zesty BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza is a fun twist on traditional pizza that’s sure to impress at your next cookout. It combines the smoky flavors of pulled pork with the freshness of herbs and the comfort of a warm, cheesy pizza.
This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for any gathering. You can use store-bought pizza dough to save time or make your own for that homemade touch. It’s a fun way to use leftover pulled pork, and everyone will love the unique flavor profile!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions (usually around 450°F or 230°C).
- Spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the pulled pork over the BBQ sauce, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce before slicing and serving. Enjoy your zesty BBQ pulled pork pizza!
Cranberry and Orange Pulled Pork
Cranberry and orange pulled pork is a delightful twist on your classic barbecue recipe. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange brings a sweet and savory flavor that’s perfect for any cookout. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.
The juicy pulled pork pairs wonderfully with the fruity sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it on a fresh bun or alongside some coleslaw for a complete meal that’s sure to be the star of your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, and soy sauce until well combined.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry and orange pulled pork on buns, topped with extra sauce and your favorite sides.
Herbed Garlic Pulled Pork
Herbed Garlic Pulled Pork is a delicious twist on a classic BBQ favorite. With its tender, juicy meat infused with the flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, this dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. The combination of spices creates an aromatic experience that elevates your cookout to the next level.
This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy family dinner. Just set it up in a slow cooker or in the oven, and let the flavors meld together while you relax. Serve it on a bun, or alongside your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- BBQ sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry and place it in a slow cooker or a roasting pan.
- Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the pork, ensuring it is well coated.
- Add Liquid: Pour chicken broth and apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker or around the pork in the roasting pan.
- Cook: If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 8 hours. If using the oven, cover tightly with foil and roast at 300°F (150°C) for about 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the cooker and shred it using two forks. Serve with BBQ sauce if desired.
Final Thoughts
Great BBQ isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. The slow simmer of spices, the anticipation as the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the satisfied smiles as your friends and family dig in. With these 12 pulled pork recipes, you’ve got everything you need to take your cookout from good to legendary. Whether you go for a timeless smoked masterpiece or a bold new flavor combo, one thing’s for sure: your guests will be talking about this meal long after the grill cools down. Fire it up and let the feasting begin!
