This Slow Cooker Kalua Pork Roast is the ultimate hands-off dinner that delivers big, bold flavors with minimal effort. Tender, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth juicy, this pork roast is infused with a rich, savory depth that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or a hearty main dish. With just 5 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does the heavy lifting for 10 hours, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Every bite is a balance of succulent texture and smoky-sweet notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a game-changer for busy food lovers.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Kalua Pork Roast
- 4 pounds pork shoulder roast (fat trimmed for a leaner dish)
- 1 Tablespoon sea salt (or kosher salt for a milder flavor)
- 1 Tablespoon liquid smoke flavoring (adds a smoky, authentic taste)
- 4 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, depending on preference)
- Optional Toppings:
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- ½ onion, chopped
- ½ cup banana peppers, sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2.5 ounces sliced olives (1 can)
- ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce (optional, for drizzling over the finished dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pork: Pierce the pork shoulder roast all over with a carving fork to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
- Season the meat: Rub the sea salt and liquid smoke evenly over the entire surface of the pork.
- Cook in the slow cooker: Place the seasoned pork roast in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low heat for 10-12 hours. Turn the roast once halfway through cooking to ensure even tenderness.
- Shred the pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Add some of the cooking drippings as needed to keep the meat moist.
- Serve: Serve the shredded pork over cooked brown or white rice. Top with your favorite optional toppings (green pepper, tomatoes, onion, banana peppers, cucumber, and olives) and drizzle with teriyaki sauce if desired.
Delicious Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Kalua Pork
While the Kalua Pork is flavorful on its own, adding toppings can take it to the next level. Try diced green peppers, tomatoes, or banana peppers for a fresh crunch. For a tangy twist, add sliced olives or a drizzle of teriyaki sauce. Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped onions or diced cucumbers for extra texture and flavor!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Serve your shredded Kalua Pork over a bed of steamed brown or white rice for a hearty meal. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Pair it with a side of macaroni salad or grilled pineapple for a Hawaiian-inspired feast. Don’t forget a cold drink like iced tea or a tropical smoothie to complete the experience!
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Store leftover Kalua Pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in ziplock bags for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
If you’re short on time, prep the pork the night before by rubbing it with salt and liquid smoke, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply pop it into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You can also cook the rice ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. For an even quicker shred, use a hand mixer on low speed to break apart the pork in seconds!
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
For a smoky twist, swap the liquid smoke for smoked paprika or chipotle powder. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or pineapple juice to the slow cooker. For a spicier kick, toss in a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use this recipe with chicken thighs or beef brisket for a different protein option!
Slow Cooker Kalua Pork Roast Recipe
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder roast, (fat trimmed)
- 1 Tablespoon sea salt
- 1 Tablespoon liquid smoke flavoring
- 4 cups cooked brown rice, (or white rice)
Optional Toppings
- 1 green pepper, diced optional
- 2 tomatoes, diced optional
- ½ onion, chopped optional
- ½ cup banana peppers, sliced optional
- 1 cucumber, diced optional
- 2.5 ounces sliced olives, 1 can optional
- ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce optional
Instructions
- Pierce pork all over with a carving fork.
- Rub salt and liquid smoke over meat.
- Place roast in a slow cooker, cover and cook on low 10-12 hours.
- Turn once about halfway through cooking time.
- Remove meat from slow cooker and shred with 2 forks, adding drippings as needed to moisten.
- Serve over rice, topped with your favorite optional toppings and teriyaki sauce.