This easy slow cooker supper is the kind of meal that makes a busy mid-summer day feel a whole lot gentler. With just three simple ingredients, you can set everything up in minutes and come back later to a tender, savory pulled meat dish that is rich, comforting, and ready to pile onto buns, spoon over mashed potatoes, or tuck into a plate with your favorite simple sides.
Serve this hearty pulled meat with soft sandwich buns, creamy coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad, or sliced pickles for a classic warm-weather comfort meal. If you want to keep things extra simple for family dinner, set out a few toppings and let everyone build their own plate, which is especially handy for picky eaters and hungry guests alike.
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Mid-Summer Comfort
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 pounds boneless pork shoulder or pork butt
1 cup root beer
1 cup barbecue sauce
Directions
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the root beer over the top.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the pork is very tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
3. Remove the pork from the cooker, drain off most of the liquid, and shred the meat with two forks.
4. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, stir in the barbecue sauce, and cook for 20 to 30 minutes more until hot and well coated. Serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For sandwich night: Pile the warm pulled pork onto toasted buns and add pickles or a scoop of crunchy slaw right on top for a simple dinner that feels a little special.
For a milder flavor: Use a sweet, mild barbecue sauce if you are serving little ones or anyone who does not enjoy smoky or spicy sauces. It keeps the meat tender and kid-friendly.
For easy cleanup: A slow cooker liner can make this recipe even more fuss-free, especially on busy days when you want dinner handled with almost no dishes waiting for you later.
For make-ahead meals: The pulled pork reheats beautifully, so you can make it a day ahead and warm it gently before serving. It is also wonderful tucked into baked potatoes, quesadillas, or rice bowls for a second meal.