A three-ingredient slow cooker main dish is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in a holiday weekend rotation: minimal prep, dependable results, and plenty of hands-off time while everything else competes for attention. This Labor Day version leans on a succulent fibrous protein and a simple sweet-savory sauce that cooks down into a glossy glaze, creating tender shreds that are perfect for feeding a crowd without tying you to the kitchen.
Serve this piled onto soft sandwich buns, spooned over mashed potatoes, or alongside coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or a crisp cucumber salad. The rich, sticky sauce also pairs nicely with pickles, sliced onions, and simple roasted vegetables, making it easy to build either a casual cookout plate or an easy buffet-style dinner.
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Lifesaver
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 pounds boneless pork shoulder
1 cup barbecue sauce
12 ounces cola
Directions
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the cola around and over the meat, then spoon the barbecue sauce on top.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
3. Transfer the pork to a large bowl or cutting board, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker and toss with the sauce. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes on warm before serving.
4. Serve hot on buns, over potatoes, or plated with classic cookout sides.
Variations & Tips
Root Beer Swap: Replace the cola with root beer for a slightly rounder, old-fashioned sweetness that works especially well with smoky barbecue sauce.
Make It Tangier: Use a vinegar-forward barbecue sauce if you want a brighter finish that cuts through the richness of the pork a bit more.
For Easy Serving: Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid before returning the shredded pork to the slow cooker if you prefer a cleaner, less rich sauce.
Freezer Tip: Cool the shredded pork completely, then pack it with some of the sauce in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. It reheats well for quick sandwiches or baked potato toppers.