When it comes to comfort food, few things beat the tender, juicy taste of pulled pork. And when you add a unique twist like root beer to the mix, you get a flavor combination that’s sure to become a new favorite. In this article, we’re excited to share 18 delicious pulled pork recipes that incorporate the sweetness and spice of root beer into every bite.
From classic sandwiches and sliders to innovative tacos and nachos, these recipes prove that slow cooker pulled pork is more versatile than you ever thought possible. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory or smoky and spicy, we’ve got a recipe to suit your taste buds. So grab a fork and get ready to dig in – it’s time to get pulled!
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and tangy combination of slow-cooked pork, root beer, and tender buns. This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup root beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour in the root beer and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with the juices.
5. Split the hamburger buns and spoon the pulled pork onto each bun.
6. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Root Beer BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Elevate your backyard barbecue with these sweet and tangy sliders, featuring tender pulled pork smothered in a root beer-infused BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce mixture.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to coat with the remaining BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast on the grill or in a toaster.
7. Assemble the sliders by placing the pulled pork onto the buns, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Easy Root Beer Pulled Pork Tacos
Get ready to level up your taco game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the tender goodness of pulled pork with the creamy sweetness of root beer. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid. Cover and bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the pulled pork onto a tortilla, topping with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Root Beer Pulled Pork Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this unique combination of tender pulled pork, crispy tortilla chips, and creamy root beer-infused cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 1 cup root beer
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pulled pork, root beer, and salt and pepper, to taste. Toss until the pork is well coated.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the pulled pork mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Transform your comfort food game with this creamy, sweet, and savory twist on classic mac and cheese! Slow-cooked root beer pulled pork adds a rich and tender touch to this family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can of root beer (12 oz)
– 1 cup of macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1 3/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper; add root beer, ensuring the meat is fully covered.
3. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight, until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Cook macaroni according to package directions; set aside.
5. In a separate pot, combine milk, butter, and cheese; whisk until smooth and creamy.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture; stir well.
7. Shred the pulled pork with two forks; add it to the macaroni mixture; toss gently.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Root Beer Pulled Pork Stuffed Baked Potatoes: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup root beer-infused pulled pork (see note)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While potatoes are baking, prepare the pulled pork by shredding it with two forks and mixing in root beer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork.
5. Divide the pulled pork among the potatoes, followed by shredded cheese, sour cream, and chives.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note: To make root beer-infused pulled pork, cook 2 pounds of pork shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot with 1 cup of root beer until tender, then shred and strain excess liquid.
Root Beer Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Root Beer Pulled Pork Quesadillas: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This unique recipe combines the tender goodness of slow-cooked pulled pork with the bold flavor of root beer and the crunch of a quesadilla. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the mixture to the pulled pork and stir until coated.
4. Place a tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the root beer-glazed pulled pork onto half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Brush both sides of the quesadilla with oil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and melted.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Pizza
Experience the sweet and savory combination of slow-cooked pulled pork, root beer, and melted mozzarella on a crispy pizza crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can of root beer (12 oz)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or homemade dough
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: chopped bell peppers, onions, and olives
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, root beer, onion, and garlic. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
4. Roll out the pizza crust or homemade dough to desired thickness.
5. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and pulled pork.
7. Add optional toppings if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + 15-20 minutes (oven)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Loaded Fries
Get ready to level up your snack game with this unique fusion of flavors! Root beer pulled pork and crispy loaded fries come together in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup root beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
– 1 bag of frozen french fries
– Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and diced onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce.
4. Bake frozen fries according to package instructions.
5. Load the fries with shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions (if using).
6. Top the loaded fries with root beer pulled pork and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes (oven)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory twist, featuring tender pulled pork smothered in a rich root beer BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup root beer BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Lettuce and tomato, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of cheese, some pulled pork, and a spoonful of root beer BBQ sauce.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Burritos
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Burritos: A Twist on a Classic
Get ready to elevate your burrito game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the tender, flavorful pulled pork of slow cooker magic with the nostalgic charm of root beer.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup root beer
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together root beer, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Pour the mixture over the pork.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the pulled pork onto a tortilla, followed by cheese and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of flavors and textures. Sweet root beer-glazed pulled pork, crispy egg rolls, and a hint of savory spices come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pulled pork shoulder
– 1/2 cup root beer
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 package egg roll wrappers (20-24 count)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add the mixture to the pulled pork and toss until coated.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Wrap egg roll wrappers around about 1/4 cup of the glazed pork.
6. Fry the egg rolls for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Root Beer Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your comfort food game with this unique take on the classic shepherd’s pie, featuring tender root beer-braised pulled pork and a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup root beer
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, root beer, onion, garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in butter until melted.
4. Transfer the pulled pork to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and grated cheddar cheese.
5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 25-30 minutes (baking)
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Stuffed Peppers
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this sweet and savory twist! This recipe combines the comforting flavors of slow-cooked pulled pork with the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the root beer mixture over it.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare bell peppers by cutting off tops and removing seeds and membranes.
5. Stir shredded pork into the slow cooker sauce. Stuff each pepper with a generous helping of pulled pork, and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow cheese to melt.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Poutine
Elevate your poutine game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines tender pulled pork, crispy fries, and a rich root beer-infused gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups poutine fries (homemade or store-bought)
– Cheddar cheese curds, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together root beer, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender.
6. Remove from oven and shred with two forks.
7. In a separate saucepan, combine flour and beef broth to make a slurry. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Serve pulled pork atop poutine fries and top with cheddar cheese curds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours (including cooking time for pork).
Root Beer Pulled Pork Cornbread Casserole
Root Beer Pulled Pork Cornbread Casserole Recipe
A rich and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of root beer, pulled pork, and cornbread for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 1 cup root beer
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pulled pork, root beer, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the pork is coated evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add the grated cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro to the mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Pour in the pulled pork mixture, followed by the cornbread mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cornbread is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Empanadas
Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Empanadas: A Twist on Traditional Pulled Pork
Take your pulled pork game to the next level with this unique recipe that combines tender, slow-cooked pork with the sweet and tangy flavors of root beer. This empanada recipe is perfect for a fun twist on a classic dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package empanada wrappers (about 12-15)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, root beer, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Roll out empanada wrappers to about 1/8 inch thickness. Spoon pulled pork onto one half of the wrapper, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Fold dough over filling and press edges together with fork to seal. Brush tops with water and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
5. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8 hours (slow cooker) + 15-20 minutes (baking)
Root Beer Pulled Pork Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Transform your sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of root beer and tender pulled pork.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup root beer
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped scallions, crumbled bacon, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix root beer and brown sugar.
3. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, slow cook the pork in the root beer mixture for 8 hours or overnight.
6. Shred the cooked pork with two forks.
7. Load the roasted sweet potatoes with pulled pork and top with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including cooking time)
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with these delicious pulled pork recipes infused with root beer! From classic sandwiches to creative twists like tacos and nachos, there’s something for everyone. Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a staple, while Root Beer BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders bring the heat. Try something new with Easy Root Beer Pulled Pork Tacos or Root Beer Pulled Pork Quesadillas. And don’t miss out on the comfort food classics like Mac and Cheese and Shepherd’s Pie. With 18 tasty recipes to choose from, you’ll be pulling pork all day long!
