Just over here officially changing the pulled pork game with my ridiculously good slow cooker BBQ pulled pork tenderloin. With just 5-ingredients, 5 minutes of prep, and no pre-browning, it slow simmers in a simple spice blend and BBQ sauce (store bought or homemade) for the most epic melt-in-your mouth pulled pork ever.
Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Nestle tenderloins into the slow cooker, side by side, alternating thicker end to thinner end.
Sprinkle all sides evenly with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Pour over ⅓ cup BBQ sauce, spreading to evenly coat the pork.
Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours, or low for 6-7, or until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
When the pork is done, carefully transfer to a cutting board. Shred or small dice the pork, then add back to the slow cooker with any accumulated juices.
Stir to combine and taste. Add additional BBQ if desired, then serve.
Notes
Pork Loin vs. Pork Tenderloin: This recipe works with both pork tenderloin (as written and pictured in the step-by-step visual guide), but it also works with pork loin. If using pork loin you will need to cook it longer since it's a thicker cut of meat. I recommend starting with 5-6 hours on high or 7-8 on low for loin, and adding additional time as needed until the pork loin easily shreds with a fork. If it's not tender at the time indicated, add more time in 30 minute increments until it's spreadable.
Timing: All slow cookers run at different temperatures, so the time given is a suggested range. If yours cooks hot, you may need to reduce the time. I have never had an issue with burning, since the pork typically releases enough juices while it's cooking to avoid this issue. However, if your slow cooker cooks very hot and you are worried about burning, you can add 1/2 cup chicken stock around the edges of the pork when you add the BBQ sauce in Step Two.
Nutrition Info: Will depend on the specific BBQ sauce used.
For serving suggestions and storage and make ahead tips, see the full blog post above.