As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
When it comes to effortless meals, slow cooking can be a true lifesaver. Imagine savoring tender, flavorful BBQ pork without spending hours in the kitchen. With these 7 set-it-and-forget-it crockpot recipes, you can enjoy delicious dishes like classic pulled pork or honey garlic pork chops, all with minimal fuss. Curious about how these recipes can transform your weeknight dinners? You're just a few steps away from mouthwatering meals that practically cook themselves.
Key Takeaways
- Classic BBQ Pulled Pork is perfect for sandwiches and requires minimal hands-on time for busy weeknights.
- Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pork Tenderloin cooks in the crockpot with only a handful of ingredients and can be marinated for more flavor.
- BBQ Pork Ribs with a tangy sauce become tender in the crockpot and can be broiled for a caramelized finish.
- Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops are easy to prepare and combine sweet and savory flavors, making them a family favorite.
- All recipes can be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, ensuring set-it-and-forget-it convenience.
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork is a beloved dish that brings a taste of the South right into your home. Cooking it in a crockpot guarantees that the pork becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and full of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the meat to absorb the rich, tangy barbecue sauce, resulting in a dish that's perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served over rice.
This recipe isn't only simple but also requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. The combination of spices and barbecue sauce will create a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this flavorful Classic BBQ Pulled Pork.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Buns for serving (optional)
- Coleslaw for topping (optional)
Instructions:
Start by mixing the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a dry rub. Rub this mixture evenly over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover all sides.
Place the seasoned pork in the crockpot and pour the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth over it. Cover the crockpot and set it to low, cooking for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce to guarantee it's well-coated.
Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw on top, if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few sliced onions or garlic cloves to the crockpot along with the pork. If you prefer a smokier taste, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture.
Additionally, if you have leftovers, the pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pulled Pork!
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pork Tenderloin
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pork Tenderloin will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Start by placing the pork tenderloin in the crockpot.
In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the pork, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
You can also reserve some of the cooking liquid to drizzle over the sliced meat for added flavor. Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the pork tenderloin in the BBQ sauce mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transfer the remaining liquid from the crockpot to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pork Tenderloin!
BBQ Pork Ribs With a Tangy Sauce
BBQ Pork Ribs with a Tangy Sauce are a delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without the hassle of grilling. Cooking them in a crockpot allows the meat to become incredibly tender as it slowly simmers in a zesty sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, as it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum taste.
To achieve the best results, it's important to choose quality pork ribs and let them marinate in the tangy sauce for a few hours or overnight. This will enhance the flavors and guarantee each bite is bursting with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Serve your BBQ pork ribs with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic BBQ experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by rinsing the pork ribs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Place the seasoned ribs in the crockpot and pour the tangy sauce over them, ensuring they're well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull away from the bone.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the ribs in the tangy sauce overnight before cooking.
Additionally, if you prefer a caramelized finish, you can transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Just brush on more barbecue sauce before broiling for that irresistible sticky glaze. Enjoy your perfectly cooked BBQ pork ribs!
Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops
Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will please the whole family. Using a crockpot, this recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in tender, succulent pork chops that are perfect for any occasion.
The sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic creates a rich sauce that pairs wonderfully with the pork, adding a delightful twist to your typical BBQ experience.
With minimal preparation and hands-on time, you can set this dish to cook in the morning and return home to a delicious meal that's ready to enjoy. Whether served with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, these Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops are sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and paprika until well combined.
Pour a small amount of the mixture into the bottom of the crockpot, then place the seasoned pork chops on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the chops, ensuring they're well-coated.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the crockpot and set them aside. If desired, you can thicken the remaining sauce by transferring it to a saucepan and simmering it on the stove for a few minutes.
Serve the pork chops with the sauce drizzled over the top and garnish with chopped green onions for an added freshness.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Additionally, if you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as overcooking can lead to dry pork chops. Enjoy your meal!
Smoky BBQ Pork and Beans
Smoky BBQ Pork and Beans is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pork with the rich flavors of barbecue sauce and savory beans. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, as it requires minimal prep time and allows for a hands-off cooking experience.
The slow cooker brings out the best in each ingredient, creating a comforting meal that's both satisfying and delicious. This dish isn't only easy to make, but it also provides a great opportunity to customize the flavors. You can use your favorite BBQ sauce or even make your own for a personal touch.
The addition of beans adds protein and fiber, making this a complete meal that everyone will love. Serve it with some crusty bread or coleslaw for a perfect combination!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
Cooking Instructions:
Start by placing the pork shoulder chunks at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top.
In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the pork and onions, ensuring everything is well coated. Next, add the rinsed beans to the crockpot, spreading them evenly.
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The pork should become tender and easily shred with a fork, and the flavors will meld beautifully together.
Once done, stir the mixture gently to combine the pork and beans, and serve hot.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the BBQ sauce mixture. This will enhance the sweetness and tanginess of the dish.
Additionally, if you like a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Enjoy your Smoky BBQ Pork and Beans!
Pineapple BBQ Pork Shoulder
Pineapple BBQ Pork Shoulder is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple. This recipe is perfect for a family gathering or a weekend barbecue, as it offers a mouthwatering combination of savory and sweet that will please everyone at the table.
The crockpot makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the pork to become tender and infused with flavor while you go about your day. Using fresh pineapple or canned pineapple can enhance the flavor profile of the dish, making it a unique twist on traditional BBQ pork.
The addition of pineapple not only provides a delicious sweetness but also helps to tenderize the meat during the slow cooking process. This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, rice, or even on a bun as a pulled pork sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare Pineapple BBQ Pork Shoulder, start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder and seasoning it with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, crushed pineapple, chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ground ginger.
Place the pork shoulder in the crockpot and pour the pineapple BBQ sauce mixture over it, guaranteeing the meat is well coated. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce to guarantee it's well coated. Allow it to simmer for an additional 30 minutes on low to soak up the flavors.
Extra Tips: When cooking your Pineapple BBQ Pork Shoulder, consider searing the pork in a hot skillet before placing it in the crockpot. This step adds an extra layer of flavor through caramelization.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness and tanginess by adding more pineapple juice or BBQ sauce to suit your taste preferences.
BBQ Pork Tacos With Fresh Slaw
BBQ Pork Tacos with Fresh Slaw is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, flavorful pulled pork with a crunchy, invigorating slaw. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to enjoy a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
The key to these tacos is the BBQ pork, which is seasoned and cooked slowly until it becomes tender and easily shredded. The fresh slaw adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the pork. Serve the tacos with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges for an extra zing.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
To prepare the BBQ pork, place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and season it with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the BBQ sauce over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the slow cooker.
While the pork is cooking, prepare the fresh slaw. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and shredded carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing to combine. Allow the slaw to sit for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
To assemble the tacos, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Place a generous amount of BBQ pork on each tortilla, topped with a scoop of fresh slaw. Add your favorite toppings, if desired, and serve immediately.
Extra Tips: For added flavor, consider marinating the pork in the BBQ sauce overnight before cooking. If you like your slaw tangier, feel free to adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar to taste. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or experiment with different BBQ sauces for a unique twist on flavor. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pork Tacos!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Pork in These Recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen pork in these recipes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as frozen meat takes longer to reach the proper temperature. You'll end up with a delicious meal!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With BBQ Pork?
Sure, because nothing says "gourmet" like BBQ pork, right? You can't go wrong with classic coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. Toss in some grilled veggies for a touch of sophistication. Your taste buds will thank you!
How Long Can I Store Leftover BBQ Pork?
You can store leftover BBQ pork in the fridge for three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure it's sealed properly!
Can I Substitute Pork With Chicken or Beef?
You might wonder if substituting pork with chicken or beef works. Absolutely! Each meat adds unique flavors, so experiment and find what suits your taste. Just adjust cooking times for the best results. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Cooked BBQ Pork?
To reheat cooked BBQ pork, you can use the oven at 275°F for about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, covering it to keep moisture in. Enjoy your delicious meal!
