Traeger BBQ Pulled Pork Recipes: Smoky Tender Perfection

I’ve spent years perfecting my Traeger BBQ pulled pork recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you. The combination of smoky flavor from the Traeger and tender, falling-apart pork is a game-changer for any backyard cookout or gathering.

This recipe delivers tender pulled pork that’s infused with rich, smoky flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying delicious BBQ in no time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Traeger Bbq Recipes Pulled Pork

Simple ingredients come together for tender pulled pork with rich, smoky flavor.

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The pork shoulder is the star here. Look for a 2-pound boneless cut at your local butcher or quality grocery store. I prefer Costco for their consistently well-trimmed shoulders. The smoked paprika adds essential smokiness—don’t skip it. If you’re out, you can substitute with a mix of regular paprika and liquid smoke.

No Traeger rub? Mix your own using equal parts brown sugar and kosher salt, then add some smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Beer is optional in the mop sauce, but it adds nice complexity. If you don’t have it, extra apple cider vinegar works too. For the barbecue sauce, pick your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.

This recipe keeps beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently with a bit of extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Traeger BBQ Pulled Pork

Here’s the method that delivers smoky, tender perfection every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Start by trimming any excess fat from the 2 lb Boneless Pork Shoulder if needed. I like to leave a thin layer for moisture. In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tbsp Smoked Paprika, 0.25 cup Brown Sugar, 2 tbsp Kosher Salt, 1 tbsp Black Pepper, 1 tbsp Garlic Powder, and 1 tbsp Onion Powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate.

The pork should be coated in a nice, even layer of the rub. This dry rub creates a flavorful crust during cooking. If you have time, let it sit for 1 hour or more for even better flavor.

Step 2: Smoke the Pork on Your Traeger

Preheat your Traeger to 225°F using your preferred type of wood pellets. I prefer a mix of hickory and apple for this recipe. Once the Traeger is ready, place the pork shoulder directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let it smoke for 8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F. During the last 2 hours of cooking, mop the pork with a mixture of 0.5 cup Apple Cider Vinegar, 1 cup Beer, and 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce every 30 minutes to keep it moist and add extra flavor.

The pork is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. You’ll see a nice bark forming on the outside – that’s where all the flavor is. If you prefer a stronger bark, you can increase the temperature to 250°F for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Shred and Finish with Barbecue Sauce

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the Traeger and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using the 0.25 cup Traeger Pork Rub, sprinkle it over the shredded pork for extra flavor. Then, toss the shredded pork with 1 cup Barbecue Sauce until it’s evenly coated. You can adjust the amount of barbecue sauce to your taste – some prefer it saucier, while others like it just coated.

The pork should now be tender, juicy, and full of smoky flavor. Serve it on a bun with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans. Enjoy the tender, fall-apart texture and the rich, complex flavors developed during the long smoke.

Serving Suggestions for This Dish

Classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Serve the tender pulled pork on soft buns. I like to use Martin’s Potato Rolls for their light texture that holds up well. Add some crispy onion strings or fresh pickles for extra texture and tanginess. You can also top with crunchy coleslaw for a fresh, creamy contrast. 🔥

Comforting Sides

Traditional BBQ sides pair beautifully with pulled pork. Try baked beans with brown sugar and bacon for a sweet, smoky complement. Grilled or roasted corn on the cob slathered with butter, salt, and pepper is another great option. For something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.

Creative Twists

Think beyond traditional pairings. Try serving the pulled pork on roasted sweet potato halves for a naturally sweet, hearty base. You can also wrap it in mexican street corn tortillas with sliced avocado, crumbled cotija, and a sprinkle of cilantro. For a unique twist, layer it on top of loaded baked potato with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.

Family-Style Service

For casual gatherings, serve family-style. Place the shredded pork in a large bowl, surrounded by buns or other serving options. Let everyone build their own perfect sandwich or plate. This makes for a fun, interactive meal that everyone enjoys customizing. 💡

Garnish and Presentation

Finish with fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. You can also drizzle with extra barbecue sauce or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. For a more polished presentation, arrange pulled pork on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side for those who like it saucier.