If you're craving the juiciest pork roasts that take zero effort, check out these 10 epic crock pot recipes! Start with the Easy Crock Pot Pork Roast—it's a classic! Then, immerse yourself in the savory goodness of pork with root veggies or sweeten things up with Honey Garlic Pork. Got a spice addiction? Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork is for you! Want something zesty? Try Teriyaki or a tangy Sweet and Sour roast. You'll also find options like Mexican Pork Carnitas, which make tacos extra special. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on these delicious flavors!
Main Points
- Slow cooking enhances flavor and tenderness, with cooking durations typically ranging from 6-10 hours on low or 4-7 hours on high.
- Popular pork cuts include pork shoulder and pork tenderloin, known for their rich flavor and optimal tenderness.
- Recipes feature a variety of flavor profiles, including honey garlic, spicy BBQ, teriyaki, and cranberry-glazed options.
- Many recipes suggest searing the pork and overnight marination to deepen flavors and improve overall taste.
- Leftovers can be creatively used in sandwiches, salads, or frozen for future meals, adding versatility to your cooking.
Easy Crock Pot Pork Roast
Cooking an easy crock pot pork roast is a simple yet rewarding way to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically falls apart.
Using a pork shoulder roast not only guarantees a flavorful dish, but the fat content also contributes to a rich, savory broth that can be enjoyed as a sauce. Pairing the roast with sweet onions and spices boosts the overall taste, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner.
This one-pot meal is incredibly versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables like potatoes and carrots directly into the crock pot. This not only saves time but also reduces cleanup, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
With just a few ingredients and your trusty crock pot, you'll have a hearty dinner ready to serve without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder roast
- 2 large sweet onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Optional: 4-5 medium potatoes, chopped
- Optional: 3-4 carrots, sliced
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by placing the sliced sweet onions at the bottom of the crock pot as a flavorful base.
Rub the pork shoulder roast with the seasoning and place it on top of the onions. Pour the chicken broth around the roast, making sure it's well moistened. If desired, add chopped potatoes and sliced carrots around the pork.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 9-10 hours or on high for 6-7 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Extra Tips:
For improved flavor, consider searing the pork roast in a skillet before placing it in the crock pot; this will develop a beautiful crust and depth of flavor.
Additionally, if you have leftovers, the pork roast can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for future meals. Just be sure to keep any leftover broth, as it makes excellent gravy or can be used as a base for soups!
Savory Pork Roast With Vegetables
Cooking a savory pork roast with vegetables in a crock pot is an effortless way to create a hearty meal that's perfect for any day of the week. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy pork that practically falls apart at the touch of a fork. By using a pork shoulder roast, you guarantee a rich and flavorful dish, while the addition of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes offers a fulfilling, nutritious side that absorbs the delicious juices.
To get started, gather your ingredients and prepare your crock pot. The key to achieving the best flavor lies in seasoning the pork roast with a mix of aromatic herbs such as rosemary, sage, and thyme. This not only improves the general taste but also complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables. As the pork roasts, the vegetables will soften and soak up the savory juices, creating a complete one-pot meal that's perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder roast
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into large chunks
- 4 carrots, cut into large pieces
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, dried
- 1 tablespoon sage, dried
- 1 tablespoon thyme, dried
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To cook the dish, begin by seasoning the pork shoulder roast generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until browned.
Place the sliced onion, carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot, then add the seared pork on top. Pour the minced garlic and chicken broth over the meat and vegetables, making sure they're well-coated. Cover and cook on low for 7-9 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Extra Tips: For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the broth. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the pan juices during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Honey Garlic Pork Roast
Honey Garlic Pork Roast is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of sweet honey, aromatic garlic, and savory soy sauce. The tender pork roast, slowly cooked to perfection, becomes infused with the delicious glaze, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, as it's easy to prepare and allows for minimal hands-on cooking time. Using a slow cooker to prepare the Honey Garlic Pork Roast guarantees that the meat is tender and succulent, while the flavors meld beautifully over several hours.
The addition of vegetables like carrots and potatoes not only elevates the meal but also provides a nutritious boost. As they cook alongside the pork, they soak up the rich sauce, making for a hearty accompaniment.
Ingredients:
- 3-5 lb pork shoulder or pork loin
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 potatoes, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions for garnish
To cook the Honey Garlic Pork Roast, begin by seasoning the pork shoulder or loin with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the glaze.
Place the chopped carrots and diced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the seasoned pork on top. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the pork, making sure it's evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Extra Tips: To elevate the flavor of your Honey Garlic Pork Roast, consider marinating the pork in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork once it's cooked and simmer the sauce in a saucepan on the stove until it reduces to your desired consistency. Finally, don't forget to garnish with fresh green onions before serving to add a pop of color and freshness!
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork
Spicy BBQ pulled pork is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the richness of pork shoulder with a kick of heat from spices. This slow-cooked delicacy is perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners, as it requires minimal effort while providing maximum flavor. The low and slow cooking method guarantees that the meat becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and perfect for a variety of serving options.
Whether you choose to enjoy it on a soft bun, wrapped in a tortilla, or atop a bed of nachos, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
To achieve the best results, you'll want to start by seasoning your pork shoulder with a blend of spices that accentuate its natural flavors. The slow cooker is your best friend here — set it to low, and let the magic happen over several hours. As the pork cooks, it will absorb the spices and any added BBQ sauce, creating a succulent and flavorful experience that can be enjoyed in numerous ways.
Prepare to impress your family and friends with this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder roast
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 cup tangy BBQ sauce
- Optional: buns, coleslaw, or toppings of choice for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Rub the pork shoulder roast with the cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
Place the seasoned pork in the Crock Pot and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork. In the last hour of cooking, pour the tangy BBQ sauce over the pork and allow it to heat through and infuse the flavors into the meat.
Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the BBQ sauce in the pot.
Extra Tips:
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder in the spice rub overnight before cooking.
Also, you can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper in the rub or adding other spices such as chili powder. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork from the slow cooker once cooked, and let the liquid thicken on the stove over medium heat before mixing it back in.
Enjoy experimenting with different serving styles and toppings to find your perfect combination!
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin is a delightful dish that brings together the natural flavors of pork and a medley of fresh herbs, creating a savory experience that's both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for a busy day, as it allows you to prepare the tenderloin in the morning and let it cook slowly throughout the day, resulting in tender, juicy meat that can be effortlessly sliced for serving.
The aromatic herbs, including rosemary, thyme, and sage, not only improve the flavor but also infuse the pork with a fragrant essence that will have everyone excitedly anticipating dinner.
To raise the taste even further, consider searing the pork tenderloin in a hot skillet before placing it in the Crock Pot. This step caramelizes the meat's exterior, developing a deeper flavor profile that complements the herbs beautifully. The slow cooker method guarantees that the pork remains moist and flavorful, making it an ideal dish for family meals, gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1-1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by mixing the chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika in a small bowl to create your herb rub.
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels, then rub the herb mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure it's well coated.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until golden brown.
Transfer the seared tenderloin to a Crock Pot and pour in the chicken broth if using. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Extra Tips:
For best results, allow the pork tenderloin to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking before slicing it. This resting period enables the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent slice.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs or spices based on your preferences, and consider serving the pork with seasonal vegetables or a side salad to create a well-rounded meal.
If you have leftovers, they can be used in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries, making this dish versatile and economical.
Cranberry-Glazed Pork Roast
The Cranberry-Glazed Pork Roast is an easy and flavorful dish that boosts the classic pork roast with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe utilizes a slow cooker to transform a simple pork roast into a tender and juicy meal. The combination of cranberry sauce and onion soup mix creates a rich flavor that seeps into the meat, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Plus, it's an excellent way to infuse a bit of festive flair into your dinner table. Not only is this dish beginner-friendly, but it also yields generous portions, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep. The leftovers can be creatively repurposed into sandwiches, tacos, or even salads, ensuring you enjoy the flavors for days to come.
With its nutritional benefits, including a good source of protein and antioxidants from the cranberries, the Cranberry-Glazed Pork Roast is a wholesome addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb pork roast (shoulder or loin)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the pork roast with salt and pepper, then place it into the slow cooker. Pour the onion soup mix over the roast, followed by the cranberry sauce, ensuring the meat is well coated.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours, allowing the pork to become tender enough to shred easily. Once cooked, shred the meat with two forks and mix it with the sauce before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider searing the pork roast in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This step will improve the complete taste.
Additionally, you can substitute the onion soup mix with homemade seasoning blends for a fresher twist. Always taste the sauce before serving, as you may want to adjust the sweetness or acidity with a little vinegar or honey depending on your preference.
Enjoy the versatility of the leftovers; they can be frozen for later use or transformed into a completely different meal!
Teriyaki Pork Roast
Teriyaki Pork Roast
If you're looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, Teriyaki Pork Roast is an excellent choice. This recipe utilizes the slow cooking method to transform a pork shoulder or pork loin into a tender, mouthwatering meal infused with a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic creates a rich marinade that seeps into the meat, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying. Adding pineapple juice or chunks not only improves the teriyaki flavor but also introduces a revitalizing sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.
Cooking the pork roast in a Crock Pot allows for a hands-off approach, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. As the roast cooks, the meat becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred, making it a wonderful filling for rice bowls or sandwiches.
Whether you're serving it over steamed rice or alongside vibrant stir-fried vegetables, this Teriyaki Pork Roast is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple juice or 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
- Cooked steamed rice (for serving)
- Stir-fried vegetables (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and pineapple juice or chunks to create the marinade.
Place the pork roast in the Crock Pot and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the Crock Pot during the final hour of cooking, stirring to combine.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider marinating the pork roast in the teriyaki sauce overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. This will allow the meat to absorb even more of the delicious flavors.
Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the Crock Pot, which will cook alongside the pork and absorb the savory teriyaki sauce.
Apple Cider Pork Roast
Apple Cider Pork Roast
Apple Cider Pork Roast is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of fall with its warm, sweet, and savory flavors. The combination of pork shoulder and apple cider creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
The slow cooking method allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the cider and spices, resulting in a tender and juicy roast that's sure to impress your guests.
To prepare this dish, you'll begin by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, improving its natural flavors. After searing the meat to achieve a rich, caramelized exterior, it will be placed in a slow cooker with apple cider, onions, and your choice of spices.
Cooking it on low for an extended period guarantees that the pork becomes fork-tender and flavorful, while the addition of root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes creates a complete meal that's both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder roast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1.5 cups apple cider
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 medium carrots, chopped (optional)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until browned.
Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker and add the apple cider, sliced onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary. If you're using root vegetables, add them around the pork.
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder in apple cider overnight before cooking. This will improve the sweetness and tenderness of the meat.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices or add a splash of vinegar for extra acidity. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork after cooking, strain the liquid, and simmer it on the stove to reduce it before serving.
Mexican Pork Carnitas
Mexican Pork Carnitas is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of traditional Mexican flavors right to your kitchen. The slow cooking method used in this recipe guarantees that the pork shoulder becomes incredibly tender and succulent, perfect for shredding. The combination of spices and zesty lime juice creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone excitedly anticipating mealtime.
Whether you serve it in tacos, burritos, or simply on its own with toppings, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
To make the carnitas even more enjoyable, consider preparing some fresh sides such as pico de gallo or guacamole. These bright and vibrant accompaniments will improve the flavors of the dish and add a revitalizing touch. Additionally, the versatility of carnitas allows you to use leftovers in various ways throughout the week, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced onions, diced avocado
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder and cutting it into large chunks. In a bowl, mix the cumin, oregano, minced garlic, lime juice, and salt. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork chunks, making sure they're well coated.
Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth over the top. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker for added flavor.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the pork shoulder in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This step adds a delicious caramelization to the meat.
Additionally, if you prefer a crispier texture, you can spread the shredded carnitas on a baking sheet and broil them for a few minutes after slow cooking, allowing the edges to crisp up.
Don't forget to save any leftovers; they can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making them a convenient option for quick meals later on.
Sweet and Sour Pork Roast
Sweet and Sour Pork Roast is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of pork with a tangy and sweet sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for busy families, as it requires minimal prep time and can be left to cook slowly throughout the day.
The combination of cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and apple cider vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that perfectly complements the tender, juicy pork roast. The addition of carrots and onions not only improves the overall taste but also adds nutritious elements to the meal.
Using a slow cooker for this recipe allows the pork to absorb all the wonderful flavors while becoming incredibly tender during the cooking process. The longer cooking time of 8-10 hours on low heat guarantees that every bite of the pork roast is infused with the sweet and sour sauce.
This dish is a great option for family dinners, as it can be served with rice or noodles, allowing everyone to enjoy the delicious sauce. Plus, any leftovers can be transformed into other meals, making it a versatile choice for your weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork roast (shoulder or loin)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
Start by placing the pork roast in the slow cooker and seasoning it with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the pork roast, making sure it's evenly coated. Add the sliced carrots and chopped onion around the pork. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Serve the sweet and sour pork roast over cooked rice or noodles, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider searing the pork roast in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker; this adds a nice depth to the dish.
Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. If you have leftover sauce, it can be thickened on the stove with a cornstarch slurry for a delicious dipping sauce or gravy.