Shredded Hawaiian kalua pork is a breeze to make in my crockpot. With just 3 simple ingredients and some good old time, I get the most delicious, melt-in-your-mouth tender pork that tastes wonderfully rich and smokey. This dump-and-go recipe is so perfect in its simplicity and it’s so flavorful and juicy. I know you are going to love it!
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I love pulled pork but don’t always love how much work goes into making it. This Hawaiian kalua pork recipe is so foolproof and requires very little effort to get the most juicy, smokey, and flavorful bite. Just let your slow cooker do its job, and you’ll have one delicious recipe! This recipe is definitely a keeper!
What’s in This Crockpot Kalua Pork Recipe
- Pork: Boneless pork butt or shoulder is my favorite for this recipe. It turns fall-apart tender after a long slow cook.
- Liquid Smoke: Adds that smokey, cooked-over-the-fire flavor to this crockpot recipe.
- Salt: If you can get your hands on it, red Hawaiian sea salt is amazing here. Otherwise, kosher salt works!
Tips for Success
- If using a bone-in roast, or a heavier roast, increase cook time to 12-14 hours.
- Liquid smoke adds an incredible flavor to this pork. If you don’t have any, rubbing in some smoked paprika makes a good alternative.
- Once you have shredded your kalua pork, it will keep well in the slow cooker on the warm setting for up to two hours til you are ready to serve.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover kalua pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 10-15 minutes. When reheating, you may want to add a couple of tablespoons of water to the pork so that it doesn’t dry out.
Serving Suggestions
I served this crockpot kalua pork with macaroni salad and some fresh pineapple. Grilled pineapple would also be delicious, or try some fried cabbage. Feel free to pile it into sandwiches too with your favorite toppings!
Crockpot Kalua Pork Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3½-4 pounds boneless pork butt or shoulder
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon red Hawaiian sea salt or kosher salt
Instructions
- Place pork roast in the crock of a slow cooker. Drizzle with liquid smoke and rub all over the surface, then sprinkle with the salt.3½-4 pounds boneless pork butt or shoulder, 1 tablespoon liquid smoke, 1 tablespoon red Hawaiian sea salt
- Slow cook on low for 10-12 hours until fall-apart tender. Shred meat in the slow cooker and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment!
why is it called Kalua Pork? Kalua is not one of the ingredients listed
Hi Dottie, this recipe is for Kalua pork, not to be confused with the popular beverage, Kahlua! Kalua is in reference to how this pork is traditionally cooked in an underground oven!