Crock Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
6 hrs
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Total Time
6 hrs 5 mins
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Servings
8
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Calories
181 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Crock Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork
Description
The recipe begins by seasoning pork tenderloin with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, coating the meat evenly. Pouring regular Dr Pepper soda over the pork and cooking it on low heat in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours tenderizes the meat, breaking down connective tissues without drying it out. The low cooking temperature helps maintain moisture and develop flavor slowly. After cooking, the pork is shredded with forks and combined back into the cooking juices and BBQ sauce, producing a saucy pulled pork.
This pulled pork is versatile for serving. It can be placed on hamburger buns topped with coleslaw for a classic sandwich, added to tacos for a handheld meal, or served atop salads and grain bowls for a hearty protein boost. The balance of sweet soda and tangy BBQ gives the pork a mildly sweet and savory profile.
The recipe notes suggest alternate cuts like pork shoulder or butt for higher fat content and flavor. Any regular soda can substitute for Dr Pepper, including cola or root beer. For reheating, stove-top warming over low heat with added juices avoids dryness better than microwaving. Leftover pork freezes well when airtight, and thawing should be gradual for best texture. These practical tips maximize convenience and preserve the pulled pork’s moist texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 small can Dr Pepper regular not diet
- 1 cup BBQ sauce I used G Hughes sugar free hickory flavored
Instructions
- Place the pork tenderloin in the Crockpot.
- Mix together the garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl and rub all over the pork.
- Pour the Dr Pepper over the pork and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours (recommended) or high for about 4 hours. Pork should be easily shreddable when done.
- Remove the pork and place on a cutting board or large plate. Reserve about a cup of the remaining juices to use later. Using two forks, shred the pork and place back in the Crock-pot.
- Pour the BBQ sauce on top of shredded pork with 1/2 cup of the remaining juices. Toss to coat. Add more BBQ sauce or juices if desired to get to desired consistency.
- Leave in the warm Crock-pot for 20-30 minutes to heat through and for the flavors to come together.
- Use shredded pork however you wish! Add to a hamburger bun with coleslaw, make into tacos, add on top of a salad or grain bowl, etc!
Notes
- Pork shoulder or butt cuts can be used instead of tenderloin for a richer, fattier result.
- Regular sodas such as cola, root beer, or sugar-free options can replace Dr Pepper.
- Reheat pulled pork gently on the stovetop with added juices to maintain moisture; microwave on medium power for short intervals if needed.
- Freeze cooled pulled pork in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn; thaw slowly in refrigerator or in cool water before reheating.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 181 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1/8 of pork (125g) | |
| Calories | 181kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 29g | 58% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.7g | 9% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.