Are you tired of the same old pork shoulder recipes? Look no further! With a slow cooker, you can create a variety of delicious and flavorful dishes that are perfect for busy cooks. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering slow cooker pork shoulder recipes that will become new favorites in your household.
From classic BBQ pulled pork to international-inspired dishes like Asian-style pork shoulder with soy sauce and ginger, these recipes showcase the versatility of pork shoulder. Plus, many of them are perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, international flavors, or just something easy and delicious, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of slow cooker pork shoulder, sharing a range of recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to cook up some serious flavor!
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the tender and flavorful pulled pork shoulder, perfectly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the BBQ sauce, beer (if using), and brown sugar.
3. Add the seasoned pork shoulder to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the sauce mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. When the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork, remove from the slow cooker and use two forks to pull it apart into strands.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Herb-Rubbed Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder
Transform a humble pork shoulder into a tender and flavorful masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the herb rub.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and 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 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Tacos
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Tacos Recipe
Elevate your taco game with this tender and flavorful slow cooker pork shoulder recipe, perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup salsa
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the seasoned pork, diced tomatoes, salsa, and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the cooked pork with two forks and stir to combine with the cooking liquid.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the pork mixture onto a tortilla and adding your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-10 hours
Asian-Inspired Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder
A flavorful and tender pork shoulder dish infused with the savory flavors of Asia, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a 6-quart slow cooker and pour the marinade over it.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Apples and Onions
Tender pork shoulder slow-cooked with sweet apples and caramelized onions, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the sliced onions and apples.
3. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onion-apple mixture.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Carnitas
Transform a humble pork shoulder into tender, juicy carnitas with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, lard or oil, onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. If using orange juice, add it during the last hour of cooking.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and serve with your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and warm tortillas.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables Recipe
Summary: This recipe yields a tender and flavorful pork shoulder slow-cooked with a medley of root vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, parsnips, and cubed potato.
3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the root vegetables.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the pork is covered.
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)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Garlic and Rosemary
Tender pork shoulder infused with the rich flavors of garlic and rosemary, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the garlic, rosemary, and chicken broth.
3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the garlic mixture.
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 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Pineapple Glaze
Elevate your slow cooker game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a slow cooker, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and ground ginger.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, brush the pork with the pineapple glaze (the liquid in the slow cooker).
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh pineapple chunks if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder Chili
This hearty slow cooker chili is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you want a comforting, easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the pork shoulder in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Add the browned pork, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Balsamic Glaze
Moist and flavorful pork shoulder is elevated to new heights with a rich balsamic glaze, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the seasoned pork shoulder, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar.
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 to create a glaze.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Honey Mustard
This sweet and tangy slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious and tender pork shoulder. With the combination of honey, mustard, and spices, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the honey-mustard mixture over it.
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 Sweet Potatoes
Transform a tough pork shoulder into tender, fall-apart meat by slow cooking it with sweet potatoes and a hint of spice. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs 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
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top.
3. Arrange the sweet potato cubes around the pork.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork 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 Shoulder with Cider and Sage
A perfect blend of flavors and tender textures come together in this slow-cooked pork shoulder recipe, featuring the warmth of cider and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, apple cider, chicken broth, olive oil, and dried sage.
3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Smoked Paprika
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Smoked Paprika Recipe
This hearty slow cooker recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, as the rich flavors of smoked paprika and tender pork shoulder meld together to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth and beer (if using). Pour the mixture over the pork shoulder.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Red Wine Sauce
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Red Wine Sauce Recipe
Tender pork shoulder falls apart at the touch of a fork, smothered in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Precinct the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
- In a slow cooker, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the pork shoulder to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- When the pork is tender, remove from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mango Salsa
This tender and flavorful pork shoulder recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The sweetness of the mango salsa complements the savory pork perfectly, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional pulled pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and a splash of water.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Meanwhile, combine the mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Serve the pulled pork with the mango salsa spooned over the top and garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Teriyaki Glaze
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Teriyaki Glaze Recipe
Transform a tough pork shoulder into tender, flavorful goodness with this easy slow cooker recipe and a sweet teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 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
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in sesame oil.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve with reserved teriyaki glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Cranberry Sauce
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Transform your pork shoulder into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with this simple slow cooker recipe, paired with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and dried thyme.
5. Pour the cranberry mixture over the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Serve with additional cranberry sauce spooned over the top, if desired. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Spicy Chipotle
Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Spicy Chipotle: A flavorful and tender pork shoulder recipe that combines the richness of slow-cooked meat with a spicy kick from chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (4 oz)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, chipotle peppers, and beef broth.
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. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ground cumin.
Cooking Time: Low: 8-10 hours, High: 4-6 hours
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, flavorful pork shoulder recipes! Busy cooks rejoice – these 20 slow cooker recipes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. From classic BBQ pulled pork to global-inspired flavors like Asian- and Latin-style dishes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food classics or international flair, these mouthwatering recipes will become new favorites.