There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of slow-cooked pork tenderloin filling your kitchen—comforting, inviting, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend feast, our roundup of 20 Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes Pork Tender has got you covered. From savory stews to sweet and spicy glazes, these recipes promise to make every bite unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apples and Onions
Nothing says comfort like a tender pork loin slow-cooked with sweet apples and savory onions, creating a dish that’s effortlessly elegant yet perfectly homey.
Ingredients
- 1 (3 to 4-pound) pork loin
- 2 large apples, cored and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the pork loin to the slow cooker. Arrange the apple and onion slices around it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the pork and apples.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the apples, onions, and juices from the slow cooker.
The magic of this dish lies in the way the apples and onions melt into a luscious sauce, complementing the pork’s richness without overpowering it.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of apple cider after searing the pork and add those browned bits to the slow cooker.
Pulled Pork Slow Cooker Recipe
Nothing says comfort food quite like tender, flavorful pulled pork that practically falls apart with a fork. This slow cooker version makes it effortlessly delicious with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pour over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices.
- Serve warm on buns with extra barbecue sauce if desired.
The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with the slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting to infuse the pork with deep, smoky flavors.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Gravy
Nothing says comfort food like tender pork chops smothered in rich gravy, and this slow cooker version makes it effortlessly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Sear chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer pork chops to the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over the chops.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until pork is tender.
- Remove pork chops from the slow cooker and keep warm. Whisk together flour and water until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker juices. Cover and cook on high for 15 minutes or until gravy thickens.
- Serve pork chops smothered with gravy.
The slow cooking process ensures the pork chops are fall-off-the-bone tender, while the gravy is packed with the deep flavors of thyme and garlic.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the broth to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, juicy pork carnitas that practically shred themselves after simmering all day in your slow cooker. This recipe is your ticket to effortless, flavor-packed meals that feel anything but lazy.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Brown the pork on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the pork to your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
The magic of these carnitas lies in the citrus-infused broth that keeps the pork incredibly moist while adding a bright, tangy depth to every bite. Perfect for stuffing into tacos or piling high on nachos.
Tip: For crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Slow Cooker Pork and Beans
Nothing says comfort food like a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Pork and Beans, simmered to perfection with a blend of sweet and savory flavors that meld together beautifully over hours of cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, combine the soaked navy beans, pork shoulder, diced onion, and minced garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Add 4 cups of water to the slow cooker and stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beans are tender and the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Give the pork and beans a good stir before serving to distribute the flavors evenly.
The magic of this dish lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the pork to become incredibly tender and the beans to soak up all the rich, smoky-sweet sauce. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal that tastes like it took all day to make.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the pork cubes in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with BBQ Sauce
Nothing says comfort like a tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder smothered in rich BBQ sauce. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 1 (4 to 5-pound) pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup chicken broth around the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it. Discard the cooking liquid.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in 1 cup BBQ sauce. Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
The magic of this dish lies in the slow cooking process, which infuses the pork with a smoky sweetness and ensures it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Stew with Vegetables
Nothing says comfort like a hearty slow cooker pork stew, brimming with tender meat and vibrant vegetables. It’s the kind of meal that welcomes you home with open arms and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Add the baby potatoes and frozen peas. Cover and cook for another hour on low, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
The magic of this stew lies in the slow cooker’s ability to meld the flavors together, creating a dish that’s rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness that brightens the entire meal.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding the vegetables.
Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut
There’s something magical about the way slow cooking transforms pork and sauerkraut into a tender, flavorful dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 4 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder chunks at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Layer the sliced onion and apples over the pork.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and onions.
- Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly over the top.
- Pour the chicken broth over everything in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
The combination of sweet apples and tangy sauerkraut creates a balance of flavors that elevates this humble dish to something truly special.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the pork chunks in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Ribs
These Slow Cooker Pork Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor, making them a no-fuss favorite for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create a dry rub.
- Generously coat the pork ribs with the dry rub, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour 1 cup of barbecue sauce over them, spreading evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
- For a caramelized finish, transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with additional barbecue sauce, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.
The slow cooking process infuses the ribs with a smoky sweetness, while the quick broil at the end adds a delightful crispness to the edges.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the ribs marinate in the dry rub overnight before cooking.
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Mushrooms
There’s nothing like coming home to the savory aroma of slow-cooked pork tenderloin, especially when it’s paired with earthy mushrooms for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 2 cups sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onions and mushrooms. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the mushrooms and sauce.
The honey and soy sauce create a beautifully balanced glaze that complements the natural sweetness of the pork, while the mushrooms add a depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out.
Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Slow Cooker Pork and Sweet Potatoes
Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of tender pork and sweet potatoes that have been simmering all day in your slow cooker. This dish is a hug in a bowl, perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add the sweet potatoes, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
The magic of this recipe lies in the slow cooker doing all the work, melding the smoky sweetness of paprika and brown sugar with the natural richness of pork and sweet potatoes. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets a beautiful golden crust.
Slow Cooker Pork Curry
Warm up your kitchen with this effortlessly delicious Slow Cooker Pork Curry, a dish that brings the rich flavors of curry to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour the coconut milk and chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Add the brown sugar and lime juice, stirring to combine. Pour the mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro before serving.
This curry stands out with its perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, all melded together in the slow cooker for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding them to the dish.
Slow Cooker Pork and Cabbage
This Slow Cooker Pork and Cabbage recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that practically cooks itself, leaving your kitchen smelling amazing all day.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 small head green cabbage, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder, cabbage, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Pour over the pork and cabbage.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the cabbage and juices.
The caraway seeds and smoked paprika give this dish a unique, slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender pork and sweet cabbage.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, brown the pork pieces in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork with Pineapple
Imagine coming home to the sweet and savory aroma of Slow Cooker Pork with Pineapple, a dish that effortlessly combines tropical sweetness with tender, fall-apart pork.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the pork evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 15 minutes on high.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the pineapple’s natural enzymes, which tenderize the pork to perfection while infusing it with a bright, fruity flavor.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork chunks in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork and Lentils
This Slow Cooker Pork and Lentils recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to enjoy the cozy aromas filling your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add lentils, chicken broth, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until lentils are tender and pork is cooked through.
- Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
The magic of this dish lies in the smoky depth from the paprika and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork that pairs perfectly with the earthy lentils.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin and smoked paprika in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding the other ingredients.
Slow Cooker Pork with Honey Garlic Sauce
Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender pork bathed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce—all thanks to your slow cooker doing the heavy lifting.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add pork chunks and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the pork and sauce to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is fork-tender.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 15 minutes on high.
- Serve the pork hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. The slow cooking process ensures the pork absorbs every bit of the honey garlic sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork chunks in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork and Quinoa
This Slow Cooker Pork and Quinoa is a hearty, flavor-packed meal that practically cooks itself, leaving you free to tackle your day.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the pork to your slow cooker. Add quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the pork is tender and the quinoa has absorbed the liquid.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the quinoa, which soaks up all the savory juices from the pork, creating a perfectly textured, protein-rich meal.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast the quinoa in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding it to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork with Root Vegetables
Nothing says comfort like a hearty slow cooker meal, and this pork with root vegetables is a weeknight savior that practically cooks itself.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes total. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add onion, carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour over pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until pork is tender and vegetables are soft.
The magic of this dish lies in the caramelization of the pork and the sweetness of the root vegetables, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets a beautiful brown crust.
Slow Cooker Pork and Peppers
Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of tender pork and sweet peppers, all effortlessly cooked in your slow cooker. This dish is a weeknight hero, blending simplicity with deep, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
The magic of this recipe lies in the slow cooker doing all the work, melding the smoky paprika and sweet brown sugar into the pork for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, serve over a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Slow Cooker Pork with Mustard Sauce
Nothing says comfort like tender pork slow-cooked to perfection, smothered in a tangy mustard sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then pour over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
- Serve the pork with the mustard sauce spooned over the top. The sauce’s bold flavor perfectly complements the succulent pork, making every bite irresistible.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, stir in a tablespoon of whole grain mustard just before serving.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious slow cooker pork tenderloin recipes inspires your next cozy meal. Each dish promises ease and flavor, perfect for busy home cooks. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next cooking adventure. Happy slow cooking!