Our family loves BBQ, and slow cooker pulled pork is a go-to around here, especially in busy seasons. Between everyday life and adding a newborn to the mix, quick, low-effort meals are essential. This sweet and smoky BBQ pork rub has become a staple, and I can honestly say it’s so easy I’ve mixed it together one-handed while holding our newborn little guy.

To make the best pulled pork using this rub, I use a slow cooker. I start by placing two smaller pork roasts fat side up in the crockpot, then pour about 6 ounces of root beer over the top (save the rest for later!). I generously sprinkle the pork rub over the meat, reserving a little for later, and drizzle with our favorite barbecue sauce.

Cook on high if the pork is frozen or medium if thawed until tender and easy to shred. About an hour before serving, discard the cooking juices and shred the pork. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, then add the remaining root beer, reserved rub, and as much barbecue sauce as you like. Let it cook for the final hour so everything gets perfectly saucy and flavorful.

We serve the pulled pork on our 40 minute everything bagel seasoned hamburger buns or if I don’t have those on hands Hawaiian rolls work great too! Serve it with a side of spicy garlic parmesan green beans for the perfect meal.

This sweet and smoky BBQ pork rub has become a staple in our kitchen, especially in seasons where simple meals matter most. It’s easy, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re feeding a house full of kids or just trying to get dinner on the table without overthinking it. If you give it a try, I hope it makes your busy days feel a little more doable (and a lot more delicious).