Can you microwave barbecue pulled pork?

Yes! You can absolutely microwave barbecue pulled pork. The microwave method works by creating steam that helps break down meat fibers while reheating. Use 70% power in 30-second intervals, adding liquid if needed to prevent drying. This technique is perfect for single servings and maintains the meat's tender texture when done properly.

How long does pulled pork take to cook in a mug?

Pulled pork in a mug takes 2-4 minutes total cooking time when using pre-cooked pork. Microwave at 70% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval. The exact time depends on your microwave's wattage and the amount of pork. Always check that internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

What ingredients go into BBQ pulled pork in a mug?

Essential ingredients include: 1/2 cup cooked shredded pork, 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Optional additions include beef broth for moisture and liquid smoke for extra BBQ flavor. All ingredients are common pantry items.

Is it safe to cook pulled pork in a mug?

Yes, it's completely safe to cook pulled pork in a mug when following proper food safety guidelines. Use microwave-safe mugs, ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F, and avoid metal containers. The key is using pre-cooked pork and reheating it properly with adequate moisture to prevent bacterial growth.

How to make barbecue pulled pork without a slow cooker?

You can make BBQ pulled pork without a slow cooker using several methods: oven braising at 300°F for 3-4 hours, pressure cooking, or our quick microwave mug method. The key is maintaining moisture and using low, steady heat. The microwave mug technique offers the fastest results for single servings in just 5 minutes.

What's the best pulled pork recipe for single servings?

The best single-serve pulled pork recipe uses the microwave mug method. It combines pre-cooked shredded pork with BBQ sauce, spices, and moisture in a microwave-safe mug. This technique delivers restaurant-quality results in 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy individuals who want authentic BBQ flavor without cooking large batches.

BBQ Pulled Pork in a Mug: 5 Quick Steps to Smoky Perfection

Name: BBQ Pulled Pork in a Mug: The Game-Changing 5-Minute Microwave Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, shredded; 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1-2 tablespoons beef broth (if needed)

Description

This quick microwave BBQ pulled pork in a mug recipe creates tender, smoky pulled pork in just 5 minutes using simple pantry ingredients and your microwave.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup cooked pork shoulder, shredded

2 tablespoons BBQ sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1–2 tablespoons beef broth (if needed)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Place shredded pork in a microwave-safe mug.

2. Mix BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and all spices in a small bowl.

3. Pour sauce mixture over pork and stir to coat evenly.

4. Cover mug with microwave-safe plate, leaving slight gap for steam to escape.

5. Microwave on 70% power for 1 minute, stir, then continue in 30-second intervals until heated through.

6. Let stand 1 minute, then stir and adjust seasoning. Add broth if mixture seems dry.

7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or use as filling for sandwiches.

Notes

Use leftover cooked pork or rotisserie pork for quickest results

Adjust BBQ sauce quantity based on desired sauciness

Add liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor

Top with coleslaw for traditional BBQ experience

Hey! I’m Emma, a 37-year-old home cook from Asheville, NC, here for all you busy bees who crave something warm, tasty, and made in a mug. My journey started with late nights, tight budgets, and a microwave I used more than my coffee maker. One failed pasta sauce (RIP saucepan) led me to the world of microwave mug meals—quick, creative, and shockingly satisfying. From breakfast scrambles to fudgy brownies, I’ve made it all in a mug, often with a toddler nearby or the dog barking at shadows. Great food doesn’t need fancy tools—just curiosity, a microwave, and maybe your favorite playlist. Let’s zap, stir, and savor one mug at a time!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 320
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg