What’s The Best Way to Cook Pork in a Slow Cooker

Cooking a pork roast in a slow cooker is a great way to make a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal with very little effort. However, not all methods for cooking pork in a slow cooker are created equal.

So, what’s the best way to cook pork in a slow cooker? Use a pork shoulder bone, brown on all sides, add seasoning and liquid to the slow cooker, and cook for between 6 to 10 hours, depending upon the size of the pork shoulder.

Cooking pork in a slow cooker can be tricky because the roast takes longer to cook than other cuts of meat. If overcooked, pork can become very dry and tough. It’s important to keep an eye on your pork so that you don’t end up with an inedible meal.

In this article, we will discuss the best way to cook pork in a slow cooker so you can achieve perfect results every time.

The Best Way to Cook Pork in a Slow Cooker

The best way to cook pork in a slow cooker is by first browning it on all sides in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nicely caramelized.

This will help to lock in the moisture and give the pork a more flavorful crust. Then, transfer the pork to the slow cooker and add some broth, onions, garlic, and bay leaves. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is cooked through.

Different Methods for Cooking Pork in a Slow Cooker

There are several different methods for cooking pork in a slow cooker. The most common method is to place the pork roast in the slow cooker and add some broth, onions, garlic, and bay.

Another popular method is to brown the pork roast on all sides in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nicely caramelized. Then, transfer the pork to the slow cooker and add some broth, onions, garlic, and bay leaves.

Finally, another option is to cook the pork roast partially in the oven before transferring it to the slow cooker. All of these methods have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that will work best for your particular situation.

Benefits of Cooking Pork in a Slow Cooker

Cooking pork in a slow cooker has many benefits, such as convenience and flavor. The slow cooking process tenderizes the pork and makes it very juicy and flavorful. There is no need to babysit or monitor the cooking process; you can leave the pork to cook for several hours without having to worry about it burning or drying out.

Learn more about the Benefits of Slow Cookers: 10 Reasons to Use Them

How Long Does It Take to Cook Pork in a Slow Cooker?

It typically takes 6-8 hours to cook pork in a slow cooker on low heat, depending on the size of the roast. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork before serving.

The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for it to be considered fully cooked. If you prefer your pork to be more tender, you can cook it for an additional hour or two. Once the roast is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Pork Bone In Weight	Low Slow Cooker Setting	High Slow Cooker Setting
4 pounds	6 to 8 hours	3 to 4 hours
8 pounds	12 to 14 hours	6 to 8 hours

Read more about converting slow cooker times in my article How to Convert Slow Cooker Times (Printable Download)

Tips for Cooking Pork in a Slow Cooker

• The best cut to slow cook is a pork shoulder, as it gives the most flavor and juiciness.
• Make sure to sear the pork roast in olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker to help lock in moisture and give it a nice crust.
• Only add the amount of liquid the recipe asks for, such as broth or water, to the slow cooker for added flavor and moisture.
• For extra flavor, add herbs, vegetables, and other seasonings to the slow cooker when cooking.
• Don’t keep taking the lid off to check the pork during cooking, as this will cause heat to escape and slow down the cooking process.
• Let the roast rest for 10 minutes after cooking before slicing it up and serving.
• Mix up your ingredients for extra flavor. Add Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, soy sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings.

Two of my Favorite Slow Cooker Pork Recipes

Easy one-pot cooking is what I live for, and these two recipes are my go-to when I know I am going to be busy.

Leftover Liquid From Slow Cookers

After the pork cooks, you will notice the cooking liquid left on the bottom of the slow cooker. This is a flavorful broth that can be used to make delicious recipes. This liquid can make gravy for your roast or can be used as broth for the bases of other recipes. So don’t waste it. Use it, store it, or freeze it.

Check out my article that gives you over 19 Uses for Leftover Liquid From a Slow Cooker

Is it better to slow-cook pork on low or high?

The low setting over a longer period of time is the best setting for pork in the slow cooker. The tough cuts will fall off the bone.

Do I need to add liquid to slow cooker pork?

Yes, the amount of liquid required is approximately 1/4 of a cup of liquid per pound of meat. Meaning the total amount of liquid so water, broth, stock, sauces, etc.

How do you keep pork from drying out in a slow cooker?

Use the amount of liquid that your recipe requires, then add small amounts during cooking if you see the liquid is drying out.

What is the best liquid to cook pulled pork in?

Chicken broth gives more flavor to any pork dish than plain water.

Can I use an Instant Pot as a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make a crock pot pork roast, pork loin recipe, pork tenderloin, pork butt roast, and pork chops. Just select the slow cooker setting on the Instant Pot.

Alternatively, to reduce the cooking time, use simple ingredients like a spice rub and leave the excess fat on the pork cut. Then, use the pressure cooker setting and remember to adjust the cooking time.

Tender pork will be ready to be served with mashed potatoes. Or shredded and served with your favorite barbecue sauce and potato salad.

Wrap-Up: What’s The Best Way to Cook Pork in a Slow Cooker

Cooking pork in a slow cooker can be an easy and delicious way to make a meal. With the right cut of pork, liquid, and seasonings, you will be able to create a juicy and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.

Just remember to keep the lid sealed during cooking, follow the liquid requirements in your recipes, and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Inspiration Slow Cooker Pork

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!