Updated on August 27th, 2025
Pulled pork is always a favorite for sandwiches, and this mustard BBQ pulled pork recipe version takes a southern twist by swapping the usual tomato-based sauce for a tangy mustard barbecue sauce. The pork shoulder is rubbed with a flavorful mix of spices, slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender, and then shredded and coated in a sauce made with yellow mustard, honey, and vinegar. The result is meat that is juicy, flavorful, and just different enough from the classic to feel special while still being easy to make at home. Since the slow cooker does most of the work, this is the kind of recipe you can prep in the morning and enjoy later in the day without much effort.
Why this recipe works
- Flavorful dry rub: The blend of paprika, sugar, mustard powder, and spices seasons the pork from the start, giving it depth before the sauce is even added.
- Tender slow-cooked meat: Cooking the pork shoulder in the slow cooker allows it to break down slowly, making it juicy and easy to shred.
- Tangy mustard sauce: The sauce combines yellow mustard with honey, vinegar, and spices, giving the pork a sharp but slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the richness of the meat.
- Simple process: Aside from mixing the rub and sauce, the recipe requires very little hands-on cooking time, making it accessible even on busy days.
- Great for leftovers: The pork reheats well and can be used in different ways, so nothing goes to waste.
Serving suggestions
- Classic sandwiches: Pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and add coleslaw either on top of the meat or on the side for crunch and freshness.
- Serve with sides: Pair with baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad for a full southern-style meal.
- Use in tacos or wraps: Try the pork in tortillas or flatbreads for a fun way to change things up.
- Top baked potatoes: Add a scoop of pulled pork over a baked potato with a little extra sauce and cheese for a hearty dinner option.
- Make it party-ready: Serve the pork straight from the slow cooker at gatherings so guests can build their own sandwiches or plates.
Mustard BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe
Try mustard BBQ pulled pork for a tangy, smoky twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or a hearty dinner.
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 pound bone-in) pork shoulder roast
Dry Rub-
- 1 tablespoon mild paprika
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons hot paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mustard BBQ Sauce-
- 3/4 cup prepared yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the dry rub by mixing all of the seasonings in a small bowl.
- To prepare the bbq sauce– in a small bowl whisk together all of the sauce ingredients.
- Place the pork roast into the bottom of the slow cooker. Rub the pork on all sides with the dry-rub. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Shred the roast using two forks and discard the bones. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the mustard bbq sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 159
- Sugar: 27.4 g
- Sodium: 311.8 mg
- Fat: 2.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 28.9 g
- Protein: 6.9 g
- Cholesterol: 21.2 mg