- Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the pork on top of the onions.
- Pour Coca-Cola over the pork, then add barbecue sauce on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded with two forks.
- Remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return shredded pork to the crockpot and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Serve warm in sandwiches, tacos, or alongside your favorite sides.
Serving and Storage:
This pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, sliders, tacos, or simply served on a plate with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or baked beans.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist.
Tips:
- Use pork shoulder or butt — it has enough fat to stay tender and juicy.
- Do not remove the lid during cooking; the slow cooker retains moisture for perfect shredding.
- Adjust sweetness by using less or more Coca-Cola depending on your taste.
- For smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
- If you like extra thick sauce, remove the pork after cooking and simmer the remaining liquid on the stovetop until reduced, then return the pork to the sauce.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Coca-Cola Pulled Pork is a convenient and flavorful recipe that delivers tender, juicy meat every time. Its sweet and savory sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser for sandwiches, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
FAQ:
Can I use a different soda?
Yes — root beer, Dr Pepper, or cola alternatives work and will slightly change the flavor profile.
Can I make this spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a spicy barbecue sauce to taste.
Do I have to use a slow cooker?
While a crockpot is ideal, you can make this in a Dutch oven in the oven at 300°F for 4–5 hours, covered.
Can I shred the pork ahead of time?
Yes — cook the pork, shred, and store it in sauce in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to serve?
Serve on sandwich buns with coleslaw, or alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
