1-First Step: Trim and season the pork Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder, then cut it into 4 pieces. This helps it cook more evenly and makes shredding easier later. Next, mix the paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub the spice mix all over the pork, covering every side well. If you have time, do this the night before and refrigerate the pork so the flavor has more time to soak in.

2-Second Step: Sear for extra flavor if you want This step is optional, but it adds a nice browned taste. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then sear the pork pieces on all sides for just a few seconds per side. You are not trying to cook the pork through here. You only want color on the outside.

3-Third Step: Choose your cooking method You can make this pulled pork in the oven, slow cooker, or electric pressure cooker. Each method works well, so pick the one that fits your schedule. If you want the most hands-off option, the slow cooker is a great choice. If you need dinner faster, the pressure cooker cuts the time way down.

Oven method Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Place the pork in a Dutch oven and pour the 12 ounces of regular cola soda around it, not directly over the rub if possible. Cover and cook for 3 hours. Then remove the lid and cook for 1 to 2 more hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork. When it is done, shred the meat and toss it with barbecue sauce if you want.

Slow cooker method Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour the cola soda around it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. The pork is ready when it falls apart easily with a fork. This method is especially helpful for busy parents, working professionals, and anyone who wants dinner ready with almost no effort.

Electric pressure cooker method Put the pork and cola soda inside the electric pressure cooker. Cook on manual or high pressure for 70 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes, then open the lid and shred the pork. This is a good option when you need tender pulled pork in a shorter window.

4-Fourth Step: Shred and finish Move the cooked pork to a large bowl or cutting board and shred it with two forks. If you cooked it in a flavorful liquid, you can spoon a little of that liquid back over the meat for moisture. Add barbecue sauce if you want a sweeter, richer finish. If you are serving a crowd, keep the shredded pork warm in the pot or slow cooker on the warm setting.

5-Final Step: Serve it your way This Pulled Pork is easy to dress up or keep simple. Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, or rice bowls. It also works well beside green salad, fruit, baked beans, or chips. For another crowd-pleasing meal, try this BBQ beef tater tot casserole when you need a hearty dinner that feeds a group.