Sweet, spicy, and a little tangy, these root beer pulled pork sandwiches will blow your mind! You’ll wish you had the simple recipe a long time ago.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe

Sweet, spicy, and a little tangy, these Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches make an easy meal packed with flavor!

While this easy recipe has only 4 ingredients, do not let that fool you! The root beer flavor that is produced in this easy slow cooker recipe is out of this world!

This root beer pulled pork recipe slow cooks all day, and is ready just in time for family dinner! It is by far one of the most simple and creative pulled sandwich recipes that our family comes back for seconds and thirds!

Ingredients needed to make Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches:

pork roast (I used boneless)
can of root beer (not diet root beer)
BBQ sauce
hamburger buns

How to make Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches:

Spray your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Place roast inside slow cooker and pour root beer (cooking liquid) over the meat.

Pouring root beer on top of roast in slow cooker

Cook on low heat for about 6-8 hours (or until meat easily shreds).

Adding a bottle of BBQ sauce into slow cooker

Take the roast out of the slow cooker and shred pork using two forks (it should just fall apart) on a cutting board. Drain the root beer out of the slow cooker and place the shredded roast back inside. Stir in the bottle of barbeque sauce.
Keep warm in the slow cooker until serving.

Open faced Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork sandwich topped with BBQ sauce

Place shredded pork on hamburger buns or soft bun and serve.

To turn this Pulled Pork Sandwich recipe into a freezer meal:

Place roast and root beer into a gallon-sized freezer bag. Place freezer bag into freezer and it will last up to 90 days.
When ready to use, dump ingredients from bag into the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours (or until meat easily shreds).
Take the roast out of the slow cooker and shred using two forks (it should just fall apart). Drain the root beer out of the slow cooker and place the shredded roast back inside. Stir in the bottle of BBQ sauce.
Keep warm in the slow cooker until serving. Place meat on rolls and serve.

Amazing Slow Cooker recipes for Family Dinners:

Side Dishes to go with this Slow Cooker Pork Recipe:

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root beer pulled pork sandwich on wood cutting board

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe

Sweet, spicy, and a little tangy, these root beer pulled pork sandwiches will blow your mind! You’ll wish you had the simple recipe a long time ago.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 10

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Ingredients

▢ 1 (3 pound) pork roast, (I used boneless)
▢ 12 ounces root beer, (one can)
▢ 1 (18 ounce) bottle BBQ sauce, (we love Famous Dave's Rich and Sassy)
▢ 8 hamburger buns, (or rolls)

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Instructions

Spray your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Place roast inside slow cooker and pour the root beer over the meat.
Cook on low for about 6-8 hours (or until meat easily shreds).
Take the roast out of the slow cooker and shred using two forks (it should just fall apart). Drain the root beer out of the slow cooker and place the shredded roast back inside. Stir in the bottle of BBQ sauce.
Keep warm in the slow cooker until serving.
Place meat on hamburger buns or rolls and serve.

Notes

To turn this into a FREEZER MEAL:

Place roast and root beer into a gallon-sized freezer bag. Place freezer bag into freezer and it will last up to 90 days.
When ready to use, dump ingredients from bag into the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours (or until meat easily shreds).
Take the roast out of the slow cooker and shred using two forks (it should just fall apart). Drain the root beer out of the slow cooker and place the shredded roast back inside. Stir in the bottle of BBQ sauce.
Keep warm in the slow cooker until serving. Place meat on rolls and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 471 kcal · Carbohydrates: 52 g · Protein: 43 g · Fat: 9 g · Saturated Fat: 3 g · Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g · Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g · Cholesterol: 107 mg · Sodium: 959 mg · Potassium: 839 mg · Fiber: 1 g · Sugar: 28 g · Vitamin A: 143 IU · Vitamin C: 1 mg · Calcium: 106 mg · Iron: 3 mg

Cuisine: American

Course: Main Course

Did You Make This Recipe?We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a review or a question in the comment section below the post.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Recipe source: Allrecipes

Questions & Reviews

April says:

I've heard of bbq items made with Dr. Pepper. Do you think it could be substituted for the root beer?

Cyd says:

Sure, Dr Pepper would work too.

Kim McMillen says:

This is how I cook mine as well, I add some brown sugar when adding the barbecue sauce. I also slow cook my pork ribs in root beer, then throw them on the grill and grill with barbecue sauce till heated through.

Sarah says:

We are on a nightshade free diet which means among other things no tomatoes, do you think this recipe would work with just the root beer?

Cyd says:

This recipe calls for Bar B Que Sauce, but no tomatoes.

Daisy says:

Soooooo . I accidentally just added everything in at once :-/ . I didn't even read the instructions thinking it was just a put everything in and it will work. Do you think it will still come out right?

Penelope Pitstop says:

This is so, so good! I could eat it every day for a week!!!!!! My family went nuts over this and is asking for me to make it again next week. Awesome recipe and I feel blessed just finding it. Thanks so much!

Penelope Pitstop says:

Can I just say I love you sisters! You've given me inspiration when it was desperately needed. That being said, my family loved this root beer pulled pork. I used Hatfield teriyaki pork loins cuz they were on sale and it came out so freakin' good! My husband has already asked me to make it again. . .he also had three sandwiches! Great recipe and a great website. God bless and keep'em coming!

Debbie says:

Can any soda be used , like Dt Root beer

Cyd says:

Not sure if diet pop would make a difference. I know Dr Pepper can also be used.

Nicole says:

hi! is the rootbeer supposed to cover the meat? I have a huge slow cooker and i'm not sure that 1.5 cups will be enough... thanks!

Margie says:

Does it have a strong root beer flavor? We're not generally root beer fans, so wondering if we would like this?

Cyd says:

You can't taste the root beer at all.

Cyd says:

The root beer won't cover the meat. You could turn the meat over halfway through the cooking process.

Cyd says:

The root beer won't cover the meat. You could turn the meat over halfway through the cooking process. If you are worried you could add a little more.

Lisa Crenshaw says:

Would freezing the leftovers be okay? We are a family of 2.

Cyd says:

The pulled pork freezes well in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Lydia says:

Tried this for dinner the other day, yum! It was so good!

Patricia says:

Could pork chops be used instead of a roast?

Cyd says:

Wouldn't take as long to cook and pork chops really don't shred. But the taste should be similar.

Donna says:

Love your website! And I totally plan on trying this recipe today...I work night shift, so throwing everything in the crock pot before I go to sleep then dinner being ready when I wake up works out perfectly :-) However, can I put the pork roast in the crock pot frozen? I usually put chicken breasts and pot roasts in frozen, but I just wanted to double check. If not, I'd have to thaw mine out and wait until tomorrow to make it. Thanks!!

Cyd says:

We have put them in frozen before and it works fine.

AJ says:

Was wondering instead of using root beer or Dr Pepper, could I use regular Coke? Thanks!

Kim says:

I have a 6lb pork shoulder. I never buy such a big portion of meat but this was on sale. How long do you cook it in the crock pot for and should I double the ingredients?

Becky says:

I just made these sandwiches for our extended family dinner tonight! They were amazing! Mu husband said it was the best pulled pork he has EVER had! Thanks so much for the recipe. Becky @ themamasgirls.com

Catherine says:

I have a huge crock pot as well. I have made this dish twice and the root bear doesn't cover the meat. The meat is fine because the moisture stays in the crock pot. Both times I have made this dish has turned out great. We love our sweet BBQ Pulled Pork. Thanks for such a wonderful recipe!!!

maggie says:

most BBQ sauce contains tomato sauce or paste etc.

Kaylen says:

Do you recommend thawing out the roast first, since my is frozen. I have heard people putting the frozen roast in for more moisture. Also, will diet soda work?

Cyd says:

We recommend thawing it first, even if it's just part way. Not sure if diet soda will make a difference or not. We didn't use diet. Let us know how it all works out! :)

Liz says:

I make my barbeque pork this way but also cut up a couple of oranges and throw them in with the Root Beer and pork. Makes it even better with a hint of citrus.

jodie says:

Which cut of pork roast is the best to use?

RHome410 @ Friday is Pizza, Monday is Soup says:

I'm not a huge pork fan. I'm not a huge BBQ sauce fan. But I was intrigued by the root beer and the super-simple prep. I LOVE these sandwiches, as does my whole family. There was a big demand for more, so I currently have 2 batches underway at once. We put them on our homemade whole wheat buns with prepared cole slaw, or shredded cabbage and mayo, for some freshness, crunch, and a great way to sneak in some healthy veggies. ;-) Will be sharing our experience, and linking back to this post, on my blog...hopefully, this week.

Cyd says:

We have used a pork loin and pork butt. Usually whatever is on sale! :)

RHome410 @ Friday is Pizza, Monday is Soup says:

My post with links to this page: http://rhome410.blogspot.com/2014/02/new-family-faveso-easy.html

Jennifer says:

Hi! Thanks for the great recipe that has become a household staple recipe for me. I even shared it on my blog, giving you lovely ladies the credit: http://www.juniperinherhair.com/crock-pot-pulled-pork/ cheers!

Megan says:

Is the nutrition info for the whole recipe, including the buns? Is the calorie count equal to one complete serving?

Cyd says:

This calorie count for this recipe includes the bun since it's listed in the ingredients. It's for 8 equal servings. If you get more than 8 servings out of this recipe, then the calorie count would be less.

Kristin says:

I tried this recipe out today and it was phenomenal!! If you like Lloyd's BBQ pork you'll love this. I followed the recipe just how it said only I added in about a tablespoon of brown sugar. Maybe even a little less. My husband raved about this flavor. Perfect!

Juliana says:

Is it okay to season my meat or should I leave that off? I see the recipe didn't call for it. Thank you!

Cyd says:

You don't need to season it, but it surely wouldn't hurt anything if you do.

Goldie Meers says:

I have made this a few years ago for my daughter's 21st and quadrupled it, and I seem to remember loving the taste and simplicity. I can't remember if I thought it needed more sauce, though. I want to make it again for New Year's Eve, and I just noticed the source link to All Recipes. They call for a 2 lb tenderloin, and yours says 3 lb. Did you change the amount of pork intentionally because that is what you made your recipe with? When you quadruple the recipe, that makes quite a difference in the amount of the other ingredients! :) Thanks! (And I love your guys' stuff!)

Cyd says:

We have always used a 3 pound roast. If you need more sauce at the end of the cooking time, just add in more barbecue sauce. Hope this helps!

J. Tyson says:

Hi there. Could you use chicken in place of the pork?

Cyd says:

You can easily use chicken in place of the pork.

jomarie says:

I have a beef roast to use instead. Can I use the beef and keep the recipe exactly as it is?

Brian says:

Can this be frozen after being made?

Cyd says:

This freezes great in an airtight freezer container. Then thaw and reheat when ready.

Lori says:

We are on a vegetarian diet. Do you think this recipe would work with just the rootbeer and the bbq sauce??? hahahaha.... just kidding.

Beverly says:

Tomatoes fight cancer...

Chelsea says:

Has anyone tried doing this in a power pressure cooker?

Neva says:

Can this be cooked on high for three hours?

Cyd says:

Low and slow is always best with roast in the slow cooker, but I'm sure it would work on high as well. Just watch it closely so it doesn't dry out and to make sure it's done.

Candy Knutson says:

I'm making this recipe with chicken breasts right now. I will let you know how it turns out. I don't plan to cook it as long. We love the pork.

Karen says:

Can I use a pork loin roast or should I use a roast with more fat on it? Thank you

Cyd says:

You could use a pork loin. Just be sure it doesn't dry out. Cook low and slow.

Nance Moreland says:

I never made pulled port, but always ordered when we went out for ribs (IDKY!) This was such a good - and wow - easy recipe! Finicky hubster and visiting adult son (who smokes all his meats) both enjoyed it. I did transfer to a smaller crock after shredding and did not add sauce (hubster doesn't like). The shredded pork was a HUGE hit! On the reheat side, I did add a bit of pork gravy (jar) just enough to hold the meat together. It was wonderful both times. I did freeze the left over with gravy for a fast Wednesday night supper. Thank you for this recipe. SOOOOO EEEEEZZZZZZZ!! and a real lip smacker!!

Join The Discussion

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April says:

I've heard of bbq items made with Dr. Pepper. Do you think it could be substituted for the root beer?
Cyd says:

Sure, Dr Pepper would work too.
Kim McMillen says:

This is how I cook mine as well, I add some brown sugar when adding the barbecue sauce. I also slow cook my pork ribs in root beer, then throw them on the grill and grill with barbecue sauce till heated through.
Sarah says:

We are on a nightshade free diet which means among other things no tomatoes, do you think this recipe would work with just the root beer?
Cyd says:

This recipe calls for Bar B Que Sauce, but no tomatoes.
Daisy says:

Soooooo . I accidentally just added everything in at once :-/ . I didn't even read the instructions thinking it was just a put everything in and it will work. Do you think it will still come out right?
Penelope Pitstop says:

This is so, so good! I could eat it every day for a week!!!!!! My family went nuts over this and is asking for me to make it again next week. Awesome recipe and I feel blessed just finding it. Thanks so much!
Penelope Pitstop says:

Can I just say I love you sisters! You've given me inspiration when it was desperately needed. That being said, my family loved this root beer pulled pork. I used Hatfield teriyaki pork loins cuz they were on sale and it came out so freakin' good! My husband has already asked me to make it again. . .he also had three sandwiches! Great recipe and a great website. God bless and keep'em coming!
Debbie says:

Can any soda be used , like Dt Root beer
Cyd says:

Not sure if diet pop would make a difference. I know Dr Pepper can also be used.
Nicole says:

hi! is the rootbeer supposed to cover the meat? I have a huge slow cooker and i'm not sure that 1.5 cups will be enough... thanks!
Margie says:

Does it have a strong root beer flavor? We're not generally root beer fans, so wondering if we would like this?
Cyd says:

You can't taste the root beer at all.
Cyd says:

The root beer won't cover the meat. You could turn the meat over halfway through the cooking process.
Cyd says:

The root beer won't cover the meat. You could turn the meat over halfway through the cooking process. If you are worried you could add a little more.
Lisa Crenshaw says:

Would freezing the leftovers be okay? We are a family of 2.
Cyd says:

The pulled pork freezes well in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Lydia says:

Tried this for dinner the other day, yum! It was so good!
Patricia says:

Could pork chops be used instead of a roast?
Cyd says:

Wouldn't take as long to cook and pork chops really don't shred. But the taste should be similar.
Donna says:

Love your website! And I totally plan on trying this recipe today...I work night shift, so throwing everything in the crock pot before I go to sleep then dinner being ready when I wake up works out perfectly :-) However, can I put the pork roast in the crock pot frozen? I usually put chicken breasts and pot roasts in frozen, but I just wanted to double check. If not, I'd have to thaw mine out and wait until tomorrow to make it. Thanks!!
Cyd says:

We have put them in frozen before and it works fine.
AJ says:

Was wondering instead of using root beer or Dr Pepper, could I use regular Coke? Thanks!
Kim says:

I have a 6lb pork shoulder. I never buy such a big portion of meat but this was on sale. How long do you cook it in the crock pot for and should I double the ingredients?
Becky says:

I just made these sandwiches for our extended family dinner tonight! They were amazing! Mu husband said it was the best pulled pork he has EVER had! Thanks so much for the recipe. Becky @ themamasgirls.com
Catherine says:

I have a huge crock pot as well. I have made this dish twice and the root bear doesn't cover the meat. The meat is fine because the moisture stays in the crock pot. Both times I have made this dish has turned out great. We love our sweet BBQ Pulled Pork. Thanks for such a wonderful recipe!!!
maggie says:

most BBQ sauce contains tomato sauce or paste etc.
Kaylen says:

Do you recommend thawing out the roast first, since my is frozen. I have heard people putting the frozen roast in for more moisture. Also, will diet soda work?
Cyd says:

We recommend thawing it first, even if it's just part way. Not sure if diet soda will make a difference or not. We didn't use diet. Let us know how it all works out! :)
Liz says:

I make my barbeque pork this way but also cut up a couple of oranges and throw them in with the Root Beer and pork. Makes it even better with a hint of citrus.
jodie says:

Which cut of pork roast is the best to use?
RHome410 @ Friday is Pizza, Monday is Soup says:

I'm not a huge pork fan. I'm not a huge BBQ sauce fan. But I was intrigued by the root beer and the super-simple prep. I LOVE these sandwiches, as does my whole family. There was a big demand for more, so I currently have 2 batches underway at once. We put them on our homemade whole wheat buns with prepared cole slaw, or shredded cabbage and mayo, for some freshness, crunch, and a great way to sneak in some healthy veggies. ;-) Will be sharing our experience, and linking back to this post, on my blog...hopefully, this week.
Cyd says:

We have used a pork loin and pork butt. Usually whatever is on sale! :)
RHome410 @ Friday is Pizza, Monday is Soup says:

My post with links to this page: http://rhome410.blogspot.com/2014/02/new-family-faveso-easy.html
Jennifer says:

Hi! Thanks for the great recipe that has become a household staple recipe for me. I even shared it on my blog, giving you lovely ladies the credit: http://www.juniperinherhair.com/crock-pot-pulled-pork/ cheers!
Megan says:

Is the nutrition info for the whole recipe, including the buns? Is the calorie count equal to one complete serving?
Cyd says:

This calorie count for this recipe includes the bun since it's listed in the ingredients. It's for 8 equal servings. If you get more than 8 servings out of this recipe, then the calorie count would be less.
Kristin says:

I tried this recipe out today and it was phenomenal!! If you like Lloyd's BBQ pork you'll love this. I followed the recipe just how it said only I added in about a tablespoon of brown sugar. Maybe even a little less. My husband raved about this flavor. Perfect!
Juliana says:

Is it okay to season my meat or should I leave that off? I see the recipe didn't call for it. Thank you!
Cyd says:

You don't need to season it, but it surely wouldn't hurt anything if you do.
Goldie Meers says:

I have made this a few years ago for my daughter's 21st and quadrupled it, and I seem to remember loving the taste and simplicity. I can't remember if I thought it needed more sauce, though. I want to make it again for New Year's Eve, and I just noticed the source link to All Recipes. They call for a 2 lb tenderloin, and yours says 3 lb. Did you change the amount of pork intentionally because that is what you made your recipe with? When you quadruple the recipe, that makes quite a difference in the amount of the other ingredients! :) Thanks! (And I love your guys' stuff!)
Cyd says:

We have always used a 3 pound roast. If you need more sauce at the end of the cooking time, just add in more barbecue sauce. Hope this helps!
J. Tyson says:

Hi there. Could you use chicken in place of the pork?
Cyd says:

You can easily use chicken in place of the pork.
jomarie says:

I have a beef roast to use instead. Can I use the beef and keep the recipe exactly as it is?
Brian says:

Can this be frozen after being made?
Cyd says:

This freezes great in an airtight freezer container. Then thaw and reheat when ready.
Lori says:

We are on a vegetarian diet. Do you think this recipe would work with just the rootbeer and the bbq sauce??? hahahaha.... just kidding.
Beverly says:

Tomatoes fight cancer...
Chelsea says:

Has anyone tried doing this in a power pressure cooker?
Neva says:

Can this be cooked on high for three hours?
Cyd says:

Low and slow is always best with roast in the slow cooker, but I'm sure it would work on high as well. Just watch it closely so it doesn't dry out and to make sure it's done.
Candy Knutson says:

I'm making this recipe with chicken breasts right now. I will let you know how it turns out. I don't plan to cook it as long. We love the pork.
Karen says:

Can I use a pork loin roast or should I use a roast with more fat on it? Thank you
Cyd says:

You could use a pork loin. Just be sure it doesn't dry out. Cook low and slow.
Nance Moreland says:

I never made pulled port, but always ordered when we went out for ribs (IDKY!) This was such a good - and wow - easy recipe! Finicky hubster and visiting adult son (who smokes all his meats) both enjoyed it. I did transfer to a smaller crock after shredding and did not add sauce (hubster doesn't like). The shredded pork was a HUGE hit! On the reheat side, I did add a bit of pork gravy (jar) just enough to hold the meat together. It was wonderful both times. I did freeze the left over with gravy for a fast Wednesday night supper. Thank you for this recipe. SOOOOO EEEEEZZZZZZZ!! and a real lip smacker!!