Keto BBQ Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps – Easy, Saucy, and Low-Carb

This is the kind of weeknight meal that makes everyone happy without derailing your goals. Tender pulled pork, smoky BBQ flavor, and cool, crisp lettuce wraps create the perfect bite. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and great for meal prep.

You get all the satisfaction of a BBQ sandwich without the bun—and you won’t miss it. If you love bold flavors and minimal fuss, this one’s for you.

What Makes This Special

All the BBQ vibes, none of the carbs: You get juicy pulled pork and tangy sauce while staying low-carb and keto-friendly.

Flexible cooking methods: Slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven—use what you have and what fits your schedule.

Fresh and crunchy: Lettuce wraps add a bright, crisp contrast that keeps every bite light and satisfying.

Meal prep win: The pork reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy multiple meals with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), boneless or bone-in
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1/3–1/2 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (store-bought keto-friendly or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (check label for low sugar)
• 1 head butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated and washed
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado
• Optional low-carb garnish: a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (great if your BBQ sauce leans Asian-inspired)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Trim and season the pork: Pat the pork dry. Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.

   Rub all over the pork, pressing to adhere.

2. Sear for flavor (recommended): Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear pork on all sides until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side. This adds depth but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Choose your cook method:
   • Slow cooker: Add broth, vinegar, and Worcestershire to the pot.

     Place pork inside, cover, and cook on Low for 8–10 hours or High for 4–5 hours.

   • Instant Pot: Add broth, vinegar, and Worcestershire. Place pork in the pot. Seal and cook on High Pressure for 60–75 minutes (75 for larger roasts), then natural release for 15 minutes.
   • Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C).

     Place pork in a Dutch oven with broth, vinegar, and Worcestershire. Cover and cook 3.5–4.5 hours, until fork-tender.

4. Shred the pork: Transfer cooked pork to a board and shred with two forks. Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid.
5. Reduce and sauce: Return shredded pork to the pot.

   Stir in the sugar-free BBQ sauce and enough reserved cooking liquid to keep it juicy. Simmer on low 5–10 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust salt and vinegar to taste.

6. Prep the wraps: Separate and dry lettuce leaves.

   Aim for palm-sized pieces that can hold a scoop of pork without tearing.

7. Assemble: Spoon warm BBQ pork into each leaf. Top with pickles, red onion, cilantro, jalapeños, or avocado. Add a squeeze of lime if you like.
8. Serve: Enjoy immediately while the pork is hot and the lettuce is crisp.

Keeping It Fresh

Store components separately: Keep the pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Store lettuce leaves dry in a separate container lined with paper towels.

Reheat gently: Warm pork in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying it out. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Freeze for later: Portion pork into freezer bags, press out air, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with a bit of broth or extra BBQ sauce.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Keto-friendly and satisfying: High in protein and fat, low in carbs, and genuinely filling.
• Balanced textures: Tender meat and crisp lettuce keep every bite interesting.
• Versatile for families: Non-keto folks can pile the pork onto buns or tortillas while you enjoy wraps.
• Budget-friendly: Pork shoulder is affordable and feeds a crowd.
• Great for meal prep: Make once, eat well for days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a sugary BBQ sauce: It adds carbs fast.

  Choose a truly sugar-free brand or make your own.

• Skipping seasoning: The rub sets the foundation. Don’t rely on sauce alone for flavor.
• Undercooking the pork: If it won’t shred easily, it needs more time. Cook until fork-tender.
• Over-saucing: Too much sauce can make the pork runny and the lettuce soggy.

  Add gradually.

• Wet lettuce leaves: Moisture makes wraps fall apart. Dry thoroughly before assembling.