When it comes to busy weeknights, a delicious and stress-free dinner can be a lifesaver. That’s why we love using our slow cookers to prepare mouth-watering meals that simmer away while we’re busy with other tasks. And when it comes to pork, the options are endless! In this article, we’ll share 20 of our favorite pork slow cooker recipes that are sure to become staples in your household.
From classic pulled pork sandwiches to more adventurous dishes like Korean-style pork belly and tangy orange ginger pork, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them perfect for a busy night when you need a meal that’s both quick and delicious.
So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in some of the most tender, flavorful, and satisfying pork dishes around!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
Transform a tough cut of pork into tender, flavorful pulled pork with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a stress-free dinner or party gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Place the pork in the slow cooker and add the BBQ sauce and beer (if using).
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with these rich and flavorful pork chops smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
4. Remove pork chops from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return pork chops to skillet and spoon sauce over them.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until pork chops are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Tender and flavorful pork loin infused with the sweetness of honey and the savory flavor of garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork loin in the slow cooker and pour the honey-garlic mixture over it.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos
Savor the rich flavors of Mexico with this effortless slow cooker pork carnitas tacos recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta. This tender and juicy pork dish is infused with the deep flavors of orange, lime, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the orange juice, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Add the seasoned pork shoulder to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any juices left behind.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded pork, desired toppings, and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe yields a tender, flavorful dish perfect for the fall season. The combination of pork shoulder, apple cider, and spices creates a rich, comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the pork shoulder over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the pork and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and brown sugar to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the apple cider to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Return the pork shoulder to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut
Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut Recipe
Savor the flavors of a classic German dish with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Tender pork and tangy sauerkraut come together in a hearty, comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
2. Add sliced onion to the slow cooker and place the pork on top.
3. In a small bowl, mix sauerkraut and brown sugar; spread over the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin
This Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork tenderloin.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Stew with Root Vegetables
Perfect for a cozy evening meal, this slow cooker stew is a hearty and comforting blend of tender pork, root vegetables, and aromatic spices. Let the slow cooker do the work while you’re busy with other tasks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, brown sugar, and thyme. Pour mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs Recipe
Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on traditional pork ribs with this Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir until combined.
4. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them in the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Bake the ribs for 1 hour, then increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
7. Brush with additional pineapple juice mixture during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork and Beans
Savor the rich flavors of tender pork and creamy beans in this comforting slow cooker recipe, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 can (15 ounces) pork and beans
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the pork cubes, pork and beans, onion, garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the barbecue sauce (if using).
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Brown Sugar Balsamic Glazed Pork
Elevate your pork game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar and the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin or chops
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pork reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Posole
This hearty posole recipe is a twist on traditional Mexican stew, made with tender pork, hominy, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup hominy, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pork, diced tomatoes, hominy, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the meat is covered.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Korean Pork Belly
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the bold spices of Korea, creating a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new. With a crispy, caramelized crust and a tender, juicy interior, this spicy Korean pork belly is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, black pepper, ginger, and garlic.
3. Score the pork belly in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
5. Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a foil-lined roasting pan.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with crispy fried shallots (if using).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Pork and Apple Casserole
Slow Cooker Pork and Apple Casserole Recipe
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines tender pork, sweet apples, and savory spices – perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 cups mixed apples (Granny Smith and Gala), peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork, onion, apples, chicken broth, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Herbed Pork Roast with Potatoes
This classic roast recipe combines the rich flavor of pork with the earthy goodness of potatoes and a hint of herbs, perfect for a cozy dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork loin or shoulder roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the potatoes around the roast in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with the roasted potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Adobo
This Filipino-inspired dish is a flavorful and tender slow-cooked pork recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich adobo sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt and black pepper.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add the garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, and bay leaf.
3. Pour in the water and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Smoky Chipotle Pulled Pork
Savor the rich flavors of tender pulled pork infused with the deep smokiness and spicy kick of chipotles.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Smoked Paprika
– 2 tablespoons Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
– 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon Salt
– 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
– 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Smoked Paprika, Chipotle Peppers, Brown Sugar, Cumin, Salt, and Black Pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Add Apple Cider Vinegar.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before shredding with two forks.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pork and Mushroom Gravy
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe combines tender pork with savory mushrooms and rich gravy, all with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a slow cooker, combine the seared pork, cooked mushroom mixture, beef broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Tangy Orange Ginger Pork
This recipe combines the bold flavors of orange and ginger with tender pork, creating a sweet and savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, grated ginger, orange juice, honey, and soy sauce.
3. Add the pork pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with orange slices and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Ragu with Pasta
Slow Cooker Pork Ragu with Pasta: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pot Meal
This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian ragu, made easy by using a slow cooker. The result is a rich and flavorful sauce that coats tender pasta perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the pork shoulder in a pan with some oil, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. Serve the pork ragu over pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering pork slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic pulled pork with BBQ sauce to innovative dishes like Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Loin and Spicy Korean Pork Belly, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, and Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen, offering a delicious solution for hectic evenings. Whether you’re a pork lover or just looking for new ideas, this collection has got you covered.
