Pulled Pork

Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork

Name: Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 510 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder, boneless; 1/4 cup (60g) bourbon whiskey; 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar; 2 tbsp (30g) smoked paprika; 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder; 1 tsp (5g) onion powder; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 1/4 cup (60g) apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (120g) chopped fresh parsley

By Amara Hartwell · June 19, 2026 · Pulled Pork

Prep30 min

Cook480 min

Total510 min

Serves8

Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork — Tender, smoky pulled pork with a sweet bourbon glaze

There's something about the smell of smoky pork that instantly transports me to a sunny backyard gathering with friends and family. As a home cook, I've always been fascinated by the art of slow-cooking pork to perfection, and my bourbon glazed pulled pork recipe is the culmination of years of experimentation and refinement.

I remember the first time I tried pulled pork at a barbecue joint in the South - the tender, juicy meat simply fell apart, and the sweet, tangy flavors had me hooked. From that day on, I was determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen.

After countless trials and errors, I finally landed on a recipe that combines the richness of bourbon with the deep, smoky flavor of slow-cooked pork. The result is a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners.

In this recipe, we'll explore the art of slow-cooking pork to perfection, from the initial prep work to the final, glorious glaze. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner in the kitchen, I'm excited to share my secrets with you and help you create a dish that's sure to impress your friends and family.

So, let's get started on this culinary journey and uncover the secrets to tender, smoky pulled pork with a sweet bourbon glaze. With a little patience and practice, you'll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time, and it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for comfort food lovers and backyard gatherings.
The bourbon glaze adds a rich, velvety texture and a deep, caramelized flavor.
The slow-cooking process creates tender, juicy meat that's simply irresistible.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal supervision.
The dish is perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners.
The flavors and textures are balanced and refined, making it a great option for entertaining.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe's success lies in the combination of low-and-slow cooking with the rich, caramelized flavors of the bourbon glaze. By cooking the pork shoulder at a low temperature for an extended period, we're able to break down the connective tissues and create tender, juicy meat that's simply irresistible.

The bourbon glaze, on the other hand, adds a depth of flavor that's both sweet and tangy. The bourbon itself provides a rich, velvety texture that complements the pork perfectly, while the brown sugar and spices add a warm, aromatic flavor that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The smoky pork, the sweet glaze, and the crunchy, fresh garnishes all come together to create a dish that's both comforting and refined. Whether you're serving it at a backyard barbecue or a fancy dinner party, this bourbon glazed pulled pork is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to ingredients, the key to this recipe's success lies in the quality of the pork shoulder and the bourbon glaze. Look for a pork shoulder with a good balance of fat and lean meat, and choose a high-quality bourbon that's rich and full-bodied. The remaining ingredients are simple and accessible, but be sure to use fresh, high-quality produce for the best results.

In terms of shopping tips, I recommend checking out your local butcher or specialty store for the pork shoulder and bourbon. For the remaining ingredients, you can find everything you need at your local grocery store.

2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder, bonelessLook for a pork shoulder with a good balance of fat and lean meat, as this will help to create tender and juicy meat.
1/4 cup (60g) bourbon whiskeyChoose a high-quality bourbon that's rich and full-bodied, as this will add depth and complexity to the glaze.
1/4 cup (60g) brown sugarBrown sugar adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the glaze, and helps to balance out the sweetness of the bourbon.
2 tbsp (30g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the glaze, and helps to complement the pork perfectly.
1 tsp (5g) garlic powderGarlic powder adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the glaze, and helps to balance out the sweetness of the bourbon.
1 tsp (5g) onion powderOnion powder adds a savory, slightly sweet flavor to the glaze, and helps to complement the pork perfectly.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt helps to bring out the natural flavors of the pork and the glaze, and adds a touch of savory flavor to the dish.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, peppery flavor to the glaze, and helps to balance out the sweetness of the bourbon.
1/4 cup (60g) apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the glaze, and helps to balance out the richness of the bourbon.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilOlive oil helps to add moisture and flavor to the pork, and is used to brush the meat during the cooking process.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the glaze, and helps to balance out the sweetness of the bourbon.
1 cup (120g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the richness of the bourbon glaze.

Ingredients for Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lidInstant-read thermometerSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork

1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to make the glaze.
2
In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3
Add the pork shoulder to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
4
Add the apple cider vinegar to the pot and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5
Return the pork to the pot and brush with the bourbon glaze. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6
Bake the pork for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). Remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes.
7
Using two forks, pull the pork apart into shreds. Strain the juices from the pot and discard any excess fat. Add the strained juices to the pulled pork and toss to coat.
8
Brush the pulled pork with the remaining bourbon glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Transfer the pulled pork to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy.
10
To make ahead, cook the pork and let it cool completely. Refrigerate or freeze the cooked pork for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little extra bourbon glaze if needed.
11
To add some crunch to the dish, top the pulled pork with crispy bacon or chopped nuts. You can also serve the pork on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw or pickles.

Expert Tips

Use a high-quality bourbon that's rich and full-bodied, as this will add depth and complexity to the glaze.
Don't overcook the pork, as this will make it dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature.
Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before pulling it apart, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a sharp chef's knife to chop the fresh parsley, as this will help to release the herb's natural oils and flavors.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, such as adding a little honey or Dijon mustard to the glaze.
To make the dish more substantial, serve the pulled pork with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Consider using a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork, as this will help to reduce the cooking time and make the dish more convenient.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pork, which can make it dry and tough.
Not using a high-quality bourbon, which can result in a weak or bland glaze.
Not letting the pork rest before pulling it apart, which can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
Not straining the juices from the pot, which can result in a greasy or fatty sauce.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Not being patient and letting the pork cook for the full 6-8 hours, which can result in undercooked or tough meat.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to the dish by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes into the glaze.
Use different types of wood chips or chunks to add a smoky flavor to the pork, such as hickory or applewood.
Add some sweetness to the dish by incorporating honey or brown sugar into the glaze.
Use different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, into the glaze.
Use different types of protein, such as beef or chicken, to create a unique and delicious variation of the dish.
Serve the pulled pork on a bun with some crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious and indulgent sandwich.

What to Serve With Bourbon Glazed Pulled Pork

This bourbon glazed pulled pork is perfect for serving at a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. You can serve it on a bun with some crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, or with some crusty bread and a side of coleslaw.

Some other delicious options for serving this dish include serving it over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a bed of greens. You can also use the pulled pork as a topping for a salad or a baked potato.

Serve the pulled pork on a bun with some crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.Serve the pulled pork with some crusty bread and a side of coleslaw.Serve the pulled pork over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.Use the pulled pork as a topping for a salad or a baked potato.Serve the pulled pork with some crispy onion rings or fried okra.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This bourbon glazed pulled pork can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cook the pork in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little extra bourbon glaze if needed.

To freeze the pulled pork, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat frozen pulled pork, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then cook it in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little extra bourbon glaze if needed.

It's also a good idea to portion out the pulled pork into individual servings and freeze them separately, as this will make it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bourbon should I use for this recipe?

You should use a high-quality bourbon that's rich and full-bodied, as this will add depth and complexity to the glaze. Some good options include Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, or Bulleit.

Can I use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork, as this will help to reduce the cooking time and make the dish more convenient. Simply cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).

How do I know when the pork is done?

You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). You can also check the pork by pulling it apart with two forks - if it's tender and falls apart easily, it's done.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the pork and let it cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze it for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little extra bourbon glaze if needed.

What are some good sides to serve with this dish?

Some good sides to serve with this dish include coleslaw, baked beans, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. You can also serve the pulled pork on a bun with some crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious and indulgent sandwich.

Can I use different types of protein for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of protein for this recipe, such as beef or chicken. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the protein is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

How do I store the leftover pulled pork?

You can store the leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months, and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop when you're ready to serve it.

Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?

Yes, you can make this recipe for a large crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, and cook the pork in batches if necessary. You can also use a larger slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork, which will help to reduce the cooking time and make the dish more convenient.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card