Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe

This tender Pulled Pork is a crowd-pleasing favorite as well as being effortlessly simple. Slow-cooking the pork shoulder in Dr Pepper makes the meat go meltingly soft and sweet, which along with the smoky chipotle peppers adds a rich, complex depth to this dish that is so satisfying in a sandwich or taco.

Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe Ingredients

• The Pork:
  • 1 (4-5 pound) boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• The Braising Liquid:
  • 1 can (11 oz) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 can (12 oz) Dr Pepper (or any dark soda)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• The Finish:
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (optional, for tossing)

How To Make Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe

1. Prep the rub: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Season the meat: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the pork, pressing it into the crevices.
3. Layer the pot: Place the chopped onion and smashed garlic cloves at the bottom of a slow cooker.
4. Add the pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
5. Add the liquid: Pour the can of Dr Pepper around the pork (try not to wash off the rub). Dump the entire can of chipotle peppers (sauce and all) over the top of the meat.
6. Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours, or on High for 4 to 6 hours. The pork is done when it falls apart easily with a fork.
7. Shred: Remove the pork from the slow cooker to a large cutting board or bowl. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
8. Moisten: Skim the fat off the liquid remaining in the pot. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it in the juices to keep it moist. (Alternatively, mix in your favorite BBQ sauce if you prefer it stickier).
9. Serve: Serve hot on toasted buns or tortillas.

Recipe Tips!

• Dr Pepper Magic: The soda acts as a tenderizer! The phosphoric acid breaks down the tough connective tissue, and the caramel sugars glaze the meat as it cooks. You can substitute Root Beer or Coke if you prefer.
• Chipotle Heat: Using the full can of chipotles adds a significant smoky kick. If you are sensitive to spice, use only the adobo sauce from the can and discard the actual peppers, or just use one pepper.
• Fat Cap: Leave a thin layer of fat on the pork shoulder. As it melts during the long cook, it bastes the meat from the inside out, keeping it juicy. You can skim the excess fat at the end.
• Make Ahead: Pulled pork tastes even better the next day! Store it in its juices. The flavors meld, and the meat absorbs even more of the spicy, sweet liquid.

What To Serve With Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe?

This Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe is the ultimate party food! Pile it high on Brioche Buns with a scoop of her Coleslaw (recipe above!) for the perfect sandwich. For a taco bar, serve it with warm Corn Tortillas, pickled red onions, and fresh cilantro! If you want a comfort food bowl, spoon it over creamy Macaroni and Cheese or a baked potato for a hearty dinner.

How To Store Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store the pulled pork in an airtight container with plenty of its cooking liquid. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a saucepan on the stove or in a slow cooker. If it looks dry, add a splash of Dr Pepper, apple juice, or broth.
• Freeze: This is one of the best freezer meals! Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags (with juice) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Joanna Gaines Pulled Pork Recipe Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 35g

Nutrition information is estimated per serving (without bun).

FAQs

Try More Recipes:

• Joanna Gaines Breakfast Casserole Recipe
• Joanna Gaines Tortellini Soup Recipe
• Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe