The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that recognizes signaling molecules released from damaged cells and pathogens and mediates caspase?1 activation, thereby cleaving the activated cytokines IL?1β and IL?18. IL?1β is a pro?inflammatory cytokine that amplifies the inflammatory response via positive feedback. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome requires two signals and therefore needs a higher activation threshold. This activation is closely related to the pathogenesis of liver disease. It has been demonstrated that NLRP3 inflammasome activation plays an important role in liver cell injury, cell activation, and liver fibrosis in different etiologies and experimental animal models. These studies should help to transform the clinical treatment of liver disease. In this review, we explore the function of the inflammasome, its activation mechanism, and its biological function in different liver injuries. Meanwhile, based on the latest reports published both domestically and internationally, we review the effect of the NLRP3 inflammasome on alcoholic liver disease, non?alcoholic liver disease, chronic HCV infection, and liver fibrosis.