Comparison: Best Slow Cooker Kalua Pork (Updated | Dec 9th)
If you’re craving tender, smoky kalua pork that melts in your mouth, the right slow cooker can make all the difference. Whether you’re hosting a luau or just want a taste of Hawaii at home, we’ve tested the top slow cookers to find the best for this iconic dish. From consistent low-and-slow cooking to easy cleanup, these models deliver juicy, flavorful pork every time.
- Best for pork seasoning mix: Sauer’s BBQ Pulled Pork Slow Cookers
- Best for ultimate multi-cooker: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker
- Best for large capacity programmable: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Best for extra large gathering: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
- Best for sous vide precision: Crockpot Programmable 7-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker with Sous Vide Stainless Steel
- Best for temperature probe cooking: Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock
- Best for digital sous vide: BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker
- Best for travel-friendly design: Presto 06017 8-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker
- Best for portable locking lid: Presto 06016 6-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker
- Best for precision temperature control: Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock
Product Comparison: Best Slow Cooker Kalua Pork
Sauer’s BBQ Pulled Pork Slow Cookers, 1.60 Ounce (Pack of 1)
- Convenient seasoning blend crafted by Sauer’s
- See ingredients for instructions
- 1.6 ounce packet of Sauer’s BBQ Pulled Pork Slow Cooker Mix
- No Artificial Flavors
- Since 1887 Sauer’s was the first company to make pure flavoring extracts available to home cooks in grocery stores and by 1927 Sauer’s grew to be the largest producer of extract and spices in the nation.
Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More | Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon | Nonstick | Oven Safe Pot to 500°F | Black | MC1010
- REPLACES 12 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR & SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500°F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500°F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30% faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. *Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, and Proof.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil & glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE & EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Cooking Capacity: Prepares food for over 10 people, making it a holiday dinner hosting essential.
- Digital Timer: Counts down cooking time up to 20 hours for easy monitoring.
- Auto Warm: Automatically keeps food warm after cooking for optimal serving temperature.
- Easy Cleanup: Features a removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware pot for convenient cleaning.
- Memory Function: Resets to previous settings in case of a power outage.
- Elegant Design: Black stainless steel finish is stylish, easy to clean, and fits any kitchen decor.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that’s warm and ready when it’s time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Crockpot Programmable 7-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker with Sous Vide Stainless Steel
- Sous Vide Function: Food cooks in a temperature controlled water bath, in air-tight bags, for unrivaled results. The removable probe ensures food reaches a precise internal temperature, so there’s no over- or under-cooking. Finish on the stove for a perfect, caramelized sear
- Removable Temperature Probe: Ensures food reaches a precise internal temperature, so there’s no over-cooking, under-cooking, or guesswork
- Cook & Carry Locking Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills, for no mess on-the-go
- Innovative Design: Updated 7-quart stoneware design has more usable cooking space*, with a generous base for larger cuts of meat and family-sized meals* *Compared with SCV700 Crock-Pot Slow Cooker
- Warm Setting: Keeps food at the ideal serving temperature until it’s time to eat
- Dishwasher- and Oven-Safe: Removable stoneware and glass lid are both dishwasher-safe; the stoneware is also oven-safe
- Modern Digital Display: Customize precise temperature controls, as well as cook times from 5 minutes to 30 hours
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock, Temperature Probe, Dishwasher Safe Crock & Lid, Stainless Steel (33969A)
- NOT YOUR MOM’S SLOW COOKER: Smart technology allows you to cook a recipe to either a desired cooking time or specific temperature, before automatically switching to Warm when it’s done.
- PATENTED TEMPERATURE PROBE: Place the temperature probe into large cuts of meat to cook to a precise temperature. The control panel will display the food’s exact temperature as it cooks.
- CLIP-TIGHT GASKET LID: The lid clips securely in place, perfect for taking the slow cooker to a party, potluck or tailgate. The tight seal helps prevent messy spills along the way.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Removable and dishwasher safe crock and glass lid make cleanup simple.
- 6 QUART CAPACITY: Spacious size is perfect for a 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast.
- YOUR CHOICE COOKING: Three smart settings – probe, program and manual – allow you to cook foods to a specific temperature, for a set number of hours or on High, Low or Warm settings for up to 24 hrs
- POWER INTERRUPT PROTECTION: During a momentary power interruption of 5 seconds or less, the slow cooker will remember the programmed heat and time settings and continue cooking.
BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker, SCD7007SSD, Temperature Probe, Sous-Vide, Locking Lid, Removable Stoneware Crock
- Temperature Probe: Set your desired temp and insert the probe—unit adjusts heat to maintain it automatically. Keep lid closed to avoid heat loss, which can cause uneven cooking or undercooked results. Great for perfectly cooked meats every time
- Sous-Vide Function: Enjoy restaurant-quality results at home. Gently brings sealed food to ideal temp using precise water heating. Use included bags, submerge completely, and monitor with probe for even, juicy results without overcooking or drying out.
- Digital Control Panel: Easy-to-use display lets you select mode, set exact temps, and track cooking progress. If food isn’t heating properly, check for power loss, use correct settings, and ensure lid is sealed to maintain even, steady heat.
- Removable Stoneware Crock: Large 7-quart stoneware pot ensures even heating and easy cleanup. Always fill between ½ and ¾ full for best results. Cooking with the lid off or opening too often can cause heat loss, overcooking, or uneven results.
- First-Time Use Note: A slight odor or smoke during initial use is normal due to protective oils from manufacturing. It’s temporary, harmless, and will fade after first use. This won’t affect cooking performance or food safety in any way.
Presto 06017 8-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker, Blue
- Extra-large 8-quart slow cooker, contemporary blue
- Locking lid with seal-tight gasket for spill-proof transportation
- Cool-touch exterior and swing-up handle
- Rugged, wide-profile design helps prevent tip-overs when traveling
- Silicone cord secures a utensil in transit
- Detachable utensil holder doubles as a spoon rest
- Removable porcelain enameled cooking pot—PFAS-free
- Dry erase board and marker
- Slow cook settings for high, low, and warm
- Condensation cup collects moisture and power light
Presto 06016 6-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Dry Erase Board, Green
- Portable Design: This 6-quart slow cooker has a wide-profile, cool-touch exterior and a swing-up handle that locks the lid for spill-proof transportation.
- Versatile Cooking: Ideal for preparing pulled pork, chicken wings, sloppy joes, shredded meats, soups, stews, side dishes and more.
- Secure Utensil Holder: Features a utensil holder with a silicone cord to secure a utensil during transport, removable from the lid when serving.
- Rugged Construction: Styled in a durable green finish, this slow cooker is designed for travel and outdoor use.
- Convenient Size: With a 6-quart capacity, this slow cooker offers ample room for family-sized meals or potluck dishes.
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock, Temperature Probe, Dishwasher Safe Crock & Lid, Black Stainless (33866)
- Integrated Temperature Probe: Track Your Food’s Temperature With the Probe, Minimizing the Chances of Overcooking and Helping to Ensure Food Safety When Cooking Beef, Pork & Poultry
- Multiple Cooking Functions: Cook on Low, Medium or High With or Without the Probe; When the Food Is Ready, the Slow Cooker Shifts to Keep Warm or Holds It at the Selected Temperature
- Expand Your Cooking Options: Hold Temperature Function Lets You Sous Vide, Prepare Yogurt, Poach, Simmer, Braise, Make Fondue & More
- Digital Display: Countdown Timer Displays Remaining Cooking Time and Toggles Between the Selected Food Temperature and a Current Internal Temperature When the Probe Is in Use
- 6 Quart Capacity: Perfect Size for a 6 LB. Chicken or 4 LB. Roast
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What capacity slow cooker should I choose for making kalua pork?
For kalua pork, you’ll want a slow cooker that can accommodate at least 6-8 quarts to handle a pork shoulder or butt roast (typically 4-8 pounds). The Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS (8.5-qt) and Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart models offer ample space for larger cuts, while the Hamilton Beach 6-Quart models work well for smaller families.
Which slow cookers have temperature probes for perfect kalua pork?
Several models feature temperature probes including the Crockpot Programmable 7-Quart with Sous Vide, Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, and BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker. These probes allow you to cook pork to the precise internal temperature (190-205°F for tender pulled pork) without overcooking.
Are there slow cookers specifically designed for transporting kalua pork to gatherings?
Yes, several models excel at portability including the Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cookers (6 and 8-quart), Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable, and Crockpot Cook & Carry models. These feature locking lids with tight seals to prevent spills when transporting your kalua pork to potlucks or family gatherings.
What features should I look for in a slow cooker for making kalua pork?
For optimal kalua pork, look for models with temperature probes to ensure proper doneness, programmable timers for convenience, and keep-warm functions. The Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS offers versatility with searing capabilities, while traditional slow cookers like the Crock-Pot provide consistent low heat needed for tender, flavorful kalua pork.
Which slow cookers offer the best value for making kalua pork?
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Hamilton Beach models offer excellent value with temperature probe technology at a reasonable price point. The Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart provides basic functionality without extra features you might not need. For those wanting more versatility, the Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS, while potentially pricier, replaces 12 different cooking appliances.
Can I use a slow cooker for both cooking and serving kalua pork?
Yes, most slow cookers transition well from cooking to serving, especially those with keep-warm settings like the Crock-Pot models and Hamilton Beach slow cookers. The Presto Nomad models feature cool-touch exteriors making them safe for tabletop serving, while the Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS has an oven-safe pot for finishing with a crispy top if desired.
What’s the difference between traditional slow cookers and multi-cookers for kalua pork?
Traditional slow cookers like the Crock-Pot and Hamilton Beach models specialize in low-and-slow cooking, which is ideal for tender kalua pork. Multi-cookers like the Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS offer additional functions including searing, sautéing, and even sous vide, allowing you to brown the pork before slow cooking all in one appliance, potentially enhancing flavor.
How do I clean my slow cooker after making kalua pork?
Most models including Crock-Pot, Hamilton Beach, and BLACK+DECKER feature removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware pots and lids for easy cleanup. For stubborn residue, fill the slow cooker with warm water and dish soap, let it soak, then clean. The Ninja PossibleCooker PLUS has a nonstick pot that wipes clean easily after cooking kalua pork.