Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavor and tender texture of slow-cooked pork shoulder! With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder why this cut of meat has become a staple in many home cooks’ repertoires. From classic BBQ-style pulled pork to international-inspired dishes, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering slow cooker pork shoulder recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of slow-cooked pork shoulders, featuring a range of flavors and ingredients that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From sweet and tangy glazes to spicy and smoky flavor profiles, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes.
So grab your slow cooker, get ready to cook up some deliciousness, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of pork shoulder!
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder
Transform a pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork with minimal effort and maximum flavor using your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 2-pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. After 8 hours, check the pork’s tenderness by inserting a fork. If it’s still slightly firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on a bun or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Cider-Braised Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder
Transform a tough pork shoulder into tender, fall-apart meat with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of apple cider with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a slow cooker.
3. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, apple cider, and brown sugar to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Apples and Onions
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork shoulder, this recipe combines tender meat with caramelized apples and onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith work well)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, layer the sliced onions and apples.
3. Place the pork shoulder on top of the apple mixture.
4. Mix together brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Herb-Crusted Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder
A tender and flavorful pork shoulder dish, perfectly seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, and cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary leaves, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Tacos
Transform your slow cooker into a Mexican fiesta with this mouthwatering pork shoulder taco recipe! Tender, flavorful pork falls-apart tender and perfect for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet (16.5 oz) orange-mango salsa
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 cup water
– 6 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, orange-mango salsa, chili powder, cumin, and water.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker; cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the pork mixture into shells and topping with desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Garlic and Rosemary
A classic combination of flavors, this slow cooker recipe yields tender and delicious pork shoulder infused with the pungency of garlic and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the pork shoulder to a slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary around the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Carnitas
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Carnitas Recipe
Transform a humble pork shoulder into tender, juicy carnitas with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 bay leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Heat the lard or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add the orange and lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the bay leaves (if using) and shred the pork with two forks.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables Recipe
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines tender pork shoulder with a medley of root vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With minimal prep time and a long cooking period, this dish is ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. Add sliced onion to the skillet and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4. Add garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Place the vegetable mixture on top of the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes.
7. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Honey Mustard Glaze
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Honey Mustard Glaze Recipe
A sweet and tangy glaze gives this slow-cooked pork shoulder a rich and satisfying flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cumin.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in any accumulated juices from the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Asian Spices
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow cooking with the bold flavors of Asia, resulting in a mouthwatering pork shoulder dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and five-spice powder.
2. In a slow cooker, combine soy sauce, honey, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
3. Add the seasoned pork shoulder to the slow cooker and cover.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Pineapple and Soy Sauce
Transform pork shoulder into a tender and flavorful dish with this easy slow cooker recipe. The sweetness of pineapple and the savory flavor of soy sauce come together to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve the pork shoulder with the juices and pineapple chunks spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Smoked Paprika
Succulent pork shoulder smothered in a rich and aromatic smoked paprika sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion and minced garlic.
3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and brown sugar evenly over the pork.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the pork is covered.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Red Wine and Thyme
This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in, as the slow cooker tenderizes the pork shoulder to fall-apart perfection. The rich flavors of red wine and thyme add depth and complexity to this comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh 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 shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the pork shoulder to the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, chicken broth, and thyme sprigs on top.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Balsamic Vinegar
Tender pork shoulder slow-cooked in a rich, tangy sauce made with balsamic vinegar and aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, layer the sliced onion at the bottom.
3. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onions.
4. Sprinkle the garlic over the pork.
5. Pour in the balsamic vinegar.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
8. Strain the cooking liquid and discard the solids.
9. Serve the shredded pork with the reduced sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Maple and Brown Sugar
This sweet and savory pork shoulder recipe is a perfect comfort food for chilly days. The combination of maple syrup, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich and flavorful sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and cinnamon.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, maple syrup, and brown sugar.
3. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Chipotle Peppers
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Chipotle Peppers
This recipe combines tender pork shoulder with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
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 shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chipotle pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the cumin.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Black Beans and Corn
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This slow cooker recipe combines tender pork shoulder with flavorful black beans and sweet corn.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added spice
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place the seared pork shoulder, cooked onion mixture, black beans, and corn kernels in a slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Sweet Potatoes
Tender pork shoulder slow-cooked with sweet potatoes and a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and cubed sweet potato around the pork.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with smoked paprika (if using).
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with sweet potatoes and juices from the slow cooker.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Sauerkraut
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Sauerkraut Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork shoulder paired with tangy sauerkraut, a match made in heaven! This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a stress-free Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook pork shoulder over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add sauerkraut, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
6. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
7. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Italian Herbs
Tender pork shoulder smothered in a rich and aromatic Italian-inspired sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped parsley.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Low: 8 hours, High: 4 hours
Summary
Discover the ease and deliciousness of slow cooker pork shoulder recipes! This article presents 20 mouthwatering recipes that will transform your slow cooker into a culinary powerhouse. From classic BBQ pulled pork to international-inspired flavors like Asian spices and chipotle peppers, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping Sunday dinner, this collection of slow cooker pork shoulder recipes has got you covered.
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