Slow Cooker Pulled Meat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pulled meat recipe is versatile, affordable, and packed with flavor. It’s great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re making pulled pork, beef, or chicken, the slow cooker ensures the meat turns out perfectly moist and fall-apart tender every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless pork shoulder (or beef chuck roast or chicken thighs)
onion
garlic
paprika
smoked paprika
ground cumin
salt
black pepper
apple cider vinegar
tomato paste or barbecue sauce
broth or water
olive oil or avocado oil

Directions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meat on all sides until browned. This step adds flavor but is optional.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Place the meat on top of the onions.
4. In a bowl, mix paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste or barbecue sauce, and broth or water.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the meat.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
7. Remove the meat from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix with the juices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people.
Cooking time: 8-10 hours on low or 5-6 hours on high
Prep time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs or breasts for a leaner version.
• Add chipotle peppers or chili powder for a spicier flavor.
• Use different spice blends like taco seasoning or Italian herbs.
• Swap barbecue sauce for a tomato-based or vinegar-based sauce depending on your taste.
• Add a splash of orange juice or pineapple juice for a slightly sweet twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store pulled meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed to keep it moist.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of meat for pulled meat?

Pork shoulder, beef chuck roast, or chicken thighs work best due to their higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

Can I skip searing the meat?

Yes, searing adds flavor but the recipe will still be delicious without this step.

Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker?

Yes, a small amount of broth or water helps create steam and prevents the meat from drying out.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Pulled meat can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, pulled meat freezes well. Store in portioned containers for easy future meals.

Can I use this meat for tacos?

Definitely. Pulled meat is perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or bowls.

How do I keep the meat juicy?

Cook on low for a longer time and be sure to shred and mix the meat with the cooking juices.

Can I make this recipe with barbecue sauce?

Yes, using barbecue sauce instead of tomato paste gives a smoky, sweet flavor.

What can I serve with pulled meat?

Serve it with slaw, roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or on buns for sandwiches.

How do I reheat without drying it out?

Add a splash of broth or sauce and heat slowly to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pulled Meat is a must-have recipe in any home cook’s collection. It’s flavorful, easy to customize, and perfect for feeding a group or storing for later meals. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, you’ll have delicious shredded meat ready to enjoy in endless ways.

Slow Cooker Pulled Meat

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Slow Cooker Pulled Meat is a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or meal prep, this recipe transforms tougher cuts of meat into delicious, fall-apart shreds with minimal effort.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 3–4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (or beef chuck roast or chicken thighs)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste or 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meat on all sides until browned (optional but recommended for added flavor).
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Place the seared meat on top of the onions.
4. In a bowl, mix together paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste or barbecue sauce, and broth or water.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the meat in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 5–6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
7. Remove the meat from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix with the juices before serving.

Notes

• Can be made with pork, beef, or chicken.
• Searing the meat first adds extra depth of flavor.
• Adjust seasonings and sauce based on your preferences.
• Freezes well for future meals.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6 of recipe)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 95mg