Grandma’s pulled pork is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Slow cooked, tender, and full of rich, comforting flavor, it brings back memories of family gatherings, shared laughter, and kitchens filled with irresistible aromas.
This dish usually starts with a well seasoned cut of pork, gently rubbed with a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar. As it cooks slowly, the meat becomes incredibly soft, practically falling apart with a fork. The long cooking time allows every spice to sink deep into the pork, creating layers of flavor that only improve with patience.
What makes grandma’s pulled pork truly special is the sauce. Whether it is a classic barbecue style, a tomato based blend, or a simple mix of broth and herbs, it always tastes balanced and comforting. The pork soaks up the sauce beautifully, becoming juicy, rich, and impossible to resist.
Pulled pork like this is incredibly versatile. It can be piled onto soft buns for sandwiches, served over mashed potatoes, tucked into tacos, or enjoyed on its own with a side of coleslaw and baked beans. No matter how it is served, it always feels hearty and satisfying.
This recipe is also perfect for feeding a crowd. It can be prepared ahead of time, reheated without losing its tenderness, and served in many different ways depending on the occasion. Leftovers, if there are any, often taste even better the next day.
Grandma’s pulled pork is more than just a meal. It is a reminder of home, tradition, and the simple joy of slow cooking done with love. Every bite tells a story of comfort, care, and timeless flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Pork shoulder Boneless
- 1 cup Barbecue sauce Your favorite brand
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar Packed
- 1 tbsp Paprika Smoky
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper Freshly ground
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a dry rub.
- Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, covering it completely.
- Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour the barbecue sauce over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Serve hot on buns, with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
Nutrition
This recipe is a game changer! My family devoured it. 5 stars for sure!
Sounds kinda basic…Does it really need that much cooking time?
Basic? Maybe, but that’s classic comfort food! The long cooking time makes it tender and flavorful. Trust the process! 😋
I tried this but it was kind of dry. Maybe I cooked it too long? Not sure.
Easy recipe! I added a little chili powder for kick, turned out delish!
Sounds great! I love a little spice in my meals. Did you use any specific brand for the barbecue sauce?
I made this for a BBQ and it was a hit!!! Everyone took seconds. Thanks, Grandma!
Yum!!!
Pulled pork?? Who needs that when you can have a steak? Disagree with this whole concept.