Pulled Pork BBQ with Homemade BBQ Rub and Sauce Recipe
Cook Time: 6 hours
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 40
Yield: 8-9 lbs. of pulled pork
This Pulled Pork BBQ recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring tender, juicy pulled pork that’s slow-cooked to perfection, complemented by a flavorful homemade BBQ rub and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe from Love With Recipes offers a savory, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare yet delivers amazing flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
BBQ Rub Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tbsp |
| Dry mustard | 2 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 3 tsp |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
BBQ Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Molasses | 1/4 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
Pulled Pork Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork butts (shoulder) | 8-9 lbs |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 129.7 |
| Total Fat | 3.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 242.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 17.1 g |
| Protein | 4.6 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Rub
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Mix the Rub Ingredients: In a large ziplock bag, combine the brown sugar, onion powder, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Seal the bag and shake it gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
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Season the Pork Butts: Rinse the pork butts under cold water to remove any excess residue. Then, using a sharp knife, poke small holes across the entire surface of the meat. This will allow the rub to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor.
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Coat the Pork: Generously coat the pork butts with the prepared BBQ rub. Make sure every surface is covered with the spice mix. For best results, apply a thick layer of rub for maximum flavor.
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Refrigerate for Flavor: Place the seasoned pork butts in a large container, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.
Step 2: Make the BBQ Sauce
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Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, ketchup, tomato sauce, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir the ingredients together.
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
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Cool the Sauce: Once the sauce reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
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Store the Sauce: Pour the cooled BBQ sauce into a quart-sized jar or any sealable container. This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months, making it a convenient pantry staple.
Step 3: Cook the Pulled Pork
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Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
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Roast the Pork: Place the seasoned pork butts directly on the oven rack or in a roasting pan. Leave the pork uncovered during cooking to allow the outside to form a dark, flavorful crust. Roast for approximately 6 hours, or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
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Test the Pork: After 6 hours, check the pork to see if it’s ready. The meat should easily pull apart with a fork. If it’s not quite there, return it to the oven for another 30 minutes to an hour, until fully tender.
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Finish and Shred: Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into shreds, discarding any excess fat and bone.
Step 4: Serve the Pulled Pork
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Mix with BBQ Sauce: Once the pork is shredded, pour the homemade BBQ sauce over the top and toss the meat to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve your pulled pork BBQ on soft buns for sandwiches or simply on its own with a side of coleslaw, baked beans, or roasted vegetables. You can also freeze any leftover pulled pork for up to 6 months, making this recipe a great option for meal prep.
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Enjoy!: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the tender, flavorful pulled pork you’ve just created. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a party, or a BBQ gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork BBQ:
- Slow and Low Cooking: The key to perfect pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. Don’t rush the process—let the meat cook gently for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more cayenne pepper to the rub. For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of molasses or brown sugar.
- Freezing Tips: If you have leftovers, pulled pork freezes wonderfully. Simply place the shredded meat in a freezer-safe container, cover with additional BBQ sauce, and freeze for future use. To reheat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This Pulled Pork BBQ recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together to enjoy great food and even better company. With a balance of sweetness, spice, and savory depth, this dish is perfect for any occasion, and the homemade rub and sauce take it to a whole new level.
Let Love With Recipes be your guide to making this unforgettable pulled pork BBQ that everyone will love!
