Midwestern Barbecue (Crock-Pot)
Tender, flavorful barbecue pulled meat cooked slowly in a crock-pot, perfect for sandwiches and casual gatherings, with savory onion and smoky barbecue flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put half of the sliced onions in the crock-pot, then add the meat, cloves, water, and remaining onions.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 12 hours or overnight.
- Remove the bone and fat from the meat; drain any excess liquid.
- Put the meat back into the crock-pot.
- Add chopped onion and barbecue sauce to the meat.
- Cover and cook on high for 1 to 3 hours or on low for 4 to 8 hours, stirring 2 or 3 times.
- Serve the barbecue on large buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce. If you don't have cloves, allspice can be a good substitute. You can also swap the pork for beef, depending on what you have on hand. This dish can be made ahead and is perfect for gatherings, just like the Overnight Breakfast Sausage Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue on large buns for a satisfying meal. It pairs well with coleslaw and potato salad, making it a great choice for summer picnics or family gatherings. You might also enjoy serving it alongside Franks-N-Beans for a comforting, hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the barbecue for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Midwestern Barbecue (Crock-Pot) contains roughly 882 calories, with 12g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 703mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meat, but it's recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for even heat distribution. If you're short on time, you can cook it from frozen, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours for best results.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
You can use any type of barbecue sauce that you prefer, whether it's tangy, sweet, or smoky. Homemade sauce can also elevate the flavors. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary based on the sauce you choose, so pick one that matches your palate.
Can I add vegetables to the crock-pot?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even corn can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into larger pieces and add them in with the onions for a delicious, hearty barbecue.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).