The Secret to Perfect Pulled Pork, Just Like Grandma's

Looking for a pulled pork recipe that guarantees delicious results every time? Watch Nicole McLaughlin recreate her grandmother’s foolproof roast — a melt-in-your-mouth meal full of savory garlic goodness. This dish is both rich in flavor and versatile, making it a winner for any occasion.

Simple Seasoning Magic

Select a large, bone-in pork shoulder with a nice fat layer for optimal flavor. A bigger cut takes longer to cook, allowing you to prep side dishes and plan ahead with ease.

You only need salt, pepper, and garlic to kick things off. Make small slits in the pork and stuff with garlic cloves for that irresistible flavor. 'As the garlic softens and sweetens while cooking, it infuses the pork with a rich, aromatic taste,' Nicole explains. She encourages generous seasoning — 'Don't hold back! This is a big cut of meat, and you want all that flavor to penetrate.'

Find the recipe for the easiest, juiciest pork roast you'll ever make here.

Slow and Steady

After achieving a rich, deep brown sear, reduce the heat to 325°F to let the pork shoulder tenderize. It will cook in its own juices, resulting in savory, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Covering the pork helps trap moisture, giving you the perfect, juicy bite every time.

The end result is pulled pork that practically falls off the bone, perfect for a variety of dishes. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but still impressive for seasoned chefs. It’s also easily adaptable for slow cookers or Instant Pots.

Repurpose the Leftovers

Unless you're feeding a crowd, you’ll likely have some pulled pork left over. Don’t let it go to waste — repurpose it in tacos, a classic barbecue sandwich, or stir it into soups for extra flavor. Here are some tasty ways to transform your perfectly shredded pork into new dishes:

Simple Brunswick Stew

"My family, a group of very discerning Southerners, absolutely loves Brunswick stew," says home cook Mebbie6. "I followed this recipe to the letter, and it turned out easy and DELICIOUS!"

Incredible Pulled Pork Recipes Beyond Sandwiches

Memphis-Style BBQ Pork Totchos

"A great way to enjoy pulled pork without the bun," says reviewer Chef Dave.