pork roast recipe slow cooker
- The Best pork roast recipe slow cooker
- Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze
The Best pork roast recipe slow cooker
I also love how this recipe is great for special occasions and regular days. Whether it’s a family dinner on a busy weeknight or a meal for a gathering with friends, the pork roast holds up well. The slow cooker does the hard work for you, so you can focus on other things while it cooks itself to perfection. And because it’s made with lean cuts of pork and simple seasonings, it’s healthier than many other roasted meats—packed with protein and flavor without being overly heavy. My husband and I have even swapped out the pork shoulder for a bone-in pork loin sometimes, and it still turns out just as tender and delicious. It’s a recipe that’s foolproof, satisfying, and always a hit.
Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze
A tender, flavorful pork roast slow-cooked to perfection with a sweet and tangy apple-cider glaze. Perfect for a family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 bay leaf
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) if using a dish to broil the glaze afterward. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder. -
2
Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider, chicken broth, apple juice, diced onion, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. -
3
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. -
4
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer for 5-10 minutes to thicken the glaze. Stir in the brown sugar if not already included. -
5
Return the pork to the slow cooker and pour the thickened glaze over the top. Cover and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If using an oven, transfer the slow cooker to a baking dish, cover with foil, and broil for 5-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra tenderness, consider trussing the pork with twine before slow cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Substitute apple juice with pear juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apple-Cider Glaze
How long should I cook a pork roast in the slow cooker for optimal tenderness?
For a tender and juicy pork roast, cook it on LOW for 6-8 hours or ON HIGH for 4-6 hours, depending on the size of the roast (typically 3-4 lbs). For larger cuts (5+ lbs), extend the time to 8-10 hours on LOW or 6-8 hours on HIGH. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What type of pork roast works best in a slow cooker?
The best cuts for slow cooking are bone-in pork shoulder (Boston butt) or pork butt, as they stay juicy and flavorful. Avoid thin or overly lean cuts, as they may dry out. If using a boneless roast, opt for a well-marbled cut like pork loin (though it may require slightly shorter cooking time).
Can I add any marinades or seasonings to enhance the flavor?
Absolutely! For extra flavor, marinate the pork roast in a mix of olive oil, garlic, onions, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) before slow cooking. You can also add apple cider vinegar, honey, or a splash of beer for depth. Some popular slow cooker pork recipes include BBQ, pulled pork, or garlic herb variations.
How do I shred the pork roast after cooking?
Once the pork roast is done, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding. Use two forks to gently pull apart the meat—start from the edges and work inward. Alternatively, place the roast in a colander and use a sharp knife to cut against the grain for easier shredding. Avoid overhandling to keep it juicy.
Can I make pulled pork ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes! Pulled pork is best made ahead—cook it in the slow cooker, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, transfer it to the slow cooker on LOW for 2-3 hours or ON HIGH for 1-2 hours, adding a splash of broth or BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent drying out.
