Print

Tender Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sliders

slow cooker root beer pulled pork sliders - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple and delicious slow cooker pulled pork recipe infused with root beer for a subtle caramelized sweetness, perfect for easy party sliders.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 12 ounces root beer (e.g., Barq’s or A&W)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • About 12 slider buns (soft, small buns)
  • Optional: coleslaw, pickles, or extra BBQ sauce for topping

Instructions

  1. Trim any large chunks of excess fat off the pork, but keep some marbling intact for moisture. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder evenly, pressing the seasoning into the meat. (5 minutes)
  3. Spread the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. (2 minutes)
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic. Pour the root beer and apple cider vinegar around the pork—avoid pouring directly on the seasoning. (2 minutes)
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
  6. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large platter or cutting board. Use meat shredding claws or two forks to pull the pork into bite-sized shreds. (5-10 minutes)
  7. Skim off excess fat from the slow cooker juices and pour the flavorful liquid over the shredded pork. Stir gently to combine. (3 minutes)
  8. Toast slider buns lightly if desired. Pile the pulled pork generously on each bun. Add coleslaw or pickles on top if desired. (5 minutes)

Notes

Trim excess fat but keep some marbling for juiciness. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking. If sauce is thin, simmer on stovetop to thicken. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months. Use gluten-free buns and root beer for gluten-free version. Use vinegar-based slaw for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, slow cooker, root beer, sliders, party food, easy recipe, BBQ, pork shoulder

Find it online: https://evabake.com/tender-slow-cooker-root-beer-pulled-pork-sliders-easy-recipe-for-perfect-party-bites/