Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork is a sweet, tangy, and savory dish that combines tropical pineapple flavors with smoky barbecue sauce. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy days, offering tender, juicy pork that falls apart effortlessly after hours of slow cooking. Whether you’re serving it on sandwiches, rice bowls, or tacos, this dish brings island-inspired comfort to your table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pork shoulder or pork buttBBQ saucepineapple juicecrushed pineapplesgarlicpowderonion powdersmoked paprikasaltblack pepperolive oilhamburger buns or rice (for serving)

directions

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork shoulder on all sides in olive oil until browned.

Place the seared pork into the slow cooker.

Add BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, crushed pineapples, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easy to shred.

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix well with the juices.

Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low to absorb flavor.

Serve hot on buns, over rice, or with coleslaw.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)Shredding and resting time: 20 minutesTotal time: 8.5 hours (low) or 5.5 hours (high)

Variations

Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ sauce for a different island twist.

Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serve with grilled pineapple slices for extra sweetness and texture.

Try it in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb option.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze in sealed bags or containers for up to 3 months.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of pineapple juice or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Pork shoulder or pork butt are best for shredding, but you can also use pork loin for a leaner option—just note it may be less tender.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce pairs well with the pineapple, but any favorite sauce will do.

Do I have to sear the pork first?

Searing adds flavor, but you can skip it for convenience—the pork will still be delicious.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes with a natural release.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely before freezing in portioned containers.

What sides go well with this dish?

Coleslaw, macaroni salad, Hawaiian rolls, or coconut rice are all great options.

Can I cook it overnight?

Yes, cooking it on low overnight works great—just shred and serve the next day.

Is this suitable for a party?

Absolutely, it’s easy to make in large batches and keeps warm in the slow cooker for buffet-style serving.

Does it work for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be portioned for multiple meals throughout the week.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the amount of pineapple or choose a tangier BBQ sauce for a more savory profile.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork is a tropical-inspired comfort food that’s both flavorful and versatile. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, it delivers tender, juicy pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, bowls, or tacos. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe brings effortless island vibes to your kitchen.