Some meals don’t need a long ingredient list to be good. 4-Ingredient Crockpot Pork Shoulder with BBQ Sauce, Onion, and Vinegar is one of those recipes. It’s tender, flavorful, and made almost entirely hands-off thanks to the slow cooker.
This is the kind of recipe you make when you want something hearty and comforting without spending all day in the kitchen. You add everything to the crockpot, let it cook low and slow, and end up with fall-apart pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, plates, or leftovers the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pork Shoulder
This recipe is a favorite for busy days and family meals:
- Made with only 4 ingredients
- Minimal prep, mostly hands-off
- Tender, juicy, pull-apart pork
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Perfect for leftovers
- Easy enough for weeknights or weekends
Simple recipes like this are the ones people ask for again.
Ingredients (With Exact Measurements)
You only need four ingredients:
- 4–5 pound pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce
(use your favorite brand) - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
(or white vinegar)
Optional (Not Included in the 4 Ingredients)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder
- Extra BBQ sauce for serving
Best Pork Shoulder to Use
Look for a bone-in or boneless pork shoulder (also called pork butt). Either works well in the crockpot.
- Bone-in adds extra flavor
- Boneless is easier to shred
Choose a cut with some fat—it helps keep the meat tender during long cooking.
How to Make 4-Ingredient Crockpot Pork Shoulder
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Slice the onion into thick slices and place them in the bottom of the crockpot. This helps flavor the pork and keeps it from sticking.
Step 2: Add the Pork
Place the pork shoulder on top of the sliced onions, fat side up if possible.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce and Vinegar
Pour 1½ cups BBQ sauce evenly over the pork. Drizzle 2 tablespoons vinegar over the top.
Do not add water—the pork will release plenty of juices as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook:
- Low: 8–10 hours
- High: 5–6 hours
The pork is done when it easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce and onions.
Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pork
- Don’t lift the lid while cooking
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce flavor
- Shred the pork while it’s hot
- Let the pork sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving
Easy Variations (Optional Add-Ins)
While this recipe sticks to four ingredients, you can customize it if you’d like:
- Add brown sugar for sweetness
- Use smoky or spicy BBQ sauce
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Stir in extra BBQ sauce after shredding
(These additions go beyond the 4-ingredient recipe.)
How to Serve Crockpot BBQ Pork
This pork is very versatile:
- On hamburger buns for sandwiches
- Over rice or mashed potatoes
- In tacos or wraps
- With coleslaw on the side
- As a meal prep protein
It’s great for casual dinners, potlucks, or game days.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze shredded pork with sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in the crockpot until warmed through.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
Pork loin is leaner and may dry out. Pork shoulder works best.
Do I need to sear the pork first?
No, searing is optional and not required.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe tastes even better the next day.
Final Thoughts
4-Ingredient Crockpot Pork Shoulder with BBQ Sauce, Onion, and Vinegar is a simple, reliable recipe that fits into real life. With minimal ingredients and slow cooker ease, it delivers big flavor without extra work.
It’s the kind of meal you make once—and then keep coming back to whenever you need something easy and satisfying.