Follow these steps to create tender, flavorful Dr Pepper Pulled Pork:
- Prepare the pork: Pat the pork butt or shoulder dry with paper towels.
Rub the pork evenly with garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. - Slice the onion: Cut the sweet yellow onion into thick slices and layer at the bottom of your slow cooker or roasting pan.
- Add the pork: Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions.
- Mix the liquids: In a small bowl, combine Dr Pepper, liquid smoke, honey, and brown sugar. Pour evenly over the pork.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 8–10 hours (slow cooker) or at 300°F (150°C) in the oven for 4–5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the pork: Remove the pork from the cooking liquid and shred using two forks. Discard any excess fat, if desired.
- Toss with BBQ sauce: Combine shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Spoon the pulled pork onto hamburger buns or deli rolls. Add coleslaw on top or on the side, if desired.
Serving and Storage
Dr Pepper Pulled Pork is versatile and easy to serve:
- Serve hot on buns with coleslaw or pickles.
- Make sliders for parties or gatherings.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked pulled pork in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Tips
- Use fatty pork shoulder or butt: Fat keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during long cooking.
- Low and slow cooking: Ensures the pork becomes tender and easy to shred.
- Customize the sauce: Adjust sweetness, heat, or tanginess according to your taste.
- Skim excess fat: If desired, remove fat from the cooking liquid before mixing with the pork.
- Optional toppings: Add pickles, onions, or extra BBQ sauce for a more robust sandwich.
Conclusion
Dr Pepper Pulled Pork is the ultimate blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Its juicy, tender meat
and rich sauce make it perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or family dinners. With simple ingredients and
an easy slow-cooking method, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pulled pork at home any time.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
FAQ
Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, roast at 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
What type of pork is best?
Pork butt or shoulder works best because of its fat content and tenderness when slow-cooked.
Do I have to use Dr Pepper?
Dr Pepper adds a unique sweetness and flavor, but you can substitute with cola or root beer if preferred.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cooked pulled pork can be refrigerated and reheated later. Flavor often improves after sitting overnight.
How do I reheat leftover pulled pork?
Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a little liquid or sauce to keep it moist.