Pulled Pork for 100 Recipe: Slow-Smoked Tenderness for Your Big Crowd

When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats the satisfying goodness of pulled pork. This recipe transforms a simple cut of meat into tender, flavorful bites that everyone will love. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this dish long after the last bite!

The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity. With just a few hours of cooking time and minimal hands-on effort, you can create a feast for 100 people. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are perfect for sandwiches or tacos!

Picture juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork served alongside classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread. Each forkful will be bursting with flavor, making this dish the star of your event. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Pulled pork for 100

Gather these hearty ingredients to create a delicious pulled pork dish everyone will enjoy.

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You can find these ingredients at any local grocery store, with specialty items like smoked paprika available at Whole Foods or spice shops. Look for a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness. Brands like Sweet Baby Ray's offer great BBQ sauce options if you prefer a pre-made choice.

If you can't find smoked paprika, regular paprika with a dash of liquid smoke can work in a pinch. For sweetness, maple syrup can replace brown sugar. If you prefer less acidity, use less apple cider vinegar or substitute with chicken broth. Adjust seasonings to taste based on your preferences.

Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Pulled pork also freezes well; just ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pulled Pork

Follow these detailed steps to create tender, flavorful pulled pork that will impress your guests.

👨‍🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Start by trimming any excess fat from the 6 lb pork shoulder. While some fat is essential for flavor and moisture, you want to remove large chunks that won’t render during cooking. This ensures that the final dish is not overly greasy.

Once trimmed, rub the pork shoulder with a mixture of 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp cumin, 2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Make sure to cover all sides evenly. I like to let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat before cooking.

🍳 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the 2 whole yellow onions (sliced) and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the 6 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

This step builds a flavorful base for your pulled pork. The sweetness of the onions combined with the depth of the garlic creates an aromatic foundation that enhances the overall dish.

🥘 Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker or leave them in the Dutch oven. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top and pour in 1 cup apple cider vinegar and 0.5 cup brown sugar. These ingredients will help tenderize the meat and add a nice balance of acidity and sweetness.

Cover and cook on low for about 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. If using an oven, set it to 300°F and cook covered for the same amount of time. You’ll know it’s ready when a fork easily slides into the meat with minimal resistance.

🔥 Step 4: Shred and Mix with BBQ Sauce

Once cooked, remove the pork from the cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. I always find this is easier when the meat is still warm. Don’t forget to discard any bones if you used bone-in pork shoulder.

Add 2 cups BBQ sauce to the shredded pork and mix well to combine. This gives your pulled pork that classic tangy flavor. You can adjust the amount of sauce based on your preference—more sauce for a saucier pulled pork or less for a drier version.

⏰ Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Your pulled pork is now ready to serve! I recommend offering it on buns with extra BBQ sauce, alongside coleslaw for crunch, or simply on its own as a hearty main dish. It’s perfect for gatherings and will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

This method guarantees tender, juicy pulled pork every time, making it ideal for your next event. Enjoy!

Essential Tips for Serving Pulled Pork to a Crowd

When preparing pulled pork for a large gathering, it’s crucial to plan ahead. I recommend starting your cooking at least 8-10 hours before mealtime, allowing ample time for the pork to become tender and flavorful. Using a slow cooker or a smoker can enhance the taste significantly. 🔥

To serve efficiently, set up a buffet-style station. Offer pulled pork on soft buns with a selection of sauces—like Sweet Baby Ray’s for sweetness and a spicy option for those who like a kick. I always include toppings like coleslaw for crunch and pickles for tang. This way, guests can customize their plates! 🍖

Don’t forget about sides! Classic accompaniments such as cornbread, macaroni and cheese, or baked beans complement pulled pork beautifully. I find that having a variety helps cater to different tastes and makes the meal feel more festive. Plus, these dishes can be made ahead of time! 🍽️

Lastly, keep leftovers in mind. Store any uneaten pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheating gently on the stove with a splash of broth keeps it moist and delicious. This dish is perfect for sandwiches or tacos later in the week! 🥪