Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Roast
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A 5‑ingredient, one‑pot autumn classic.
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This slow‑cooked pork shoulder is the definition of comfort: juicy, fork‑tender meat simmered in spiced apple cider with caramelized onions, thyme, and a hint of cinnamon. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a low‑effort meal that fills your home with the aroma of fall and delivers rich, balanced flavor. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or any chilly evening when you want something deeply satisfying.
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Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Roast
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless pork shoulder (pork butt) | 3–4 lbs | Trimmed |
| Apple cider | 2 cups | Unsweetened, not juice |
| Yellow onion | 1 large | Sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Thyme | 1 tsp dried | Or 1 tbsp fresh |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp | — |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | — |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | Optional, adds depth |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | Optional, for caramelization |
(Use a 6–7 quart slow cooker)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Sear (Optional but Recommended)
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium‑high. Sear pork 3–4 minutes per side until golden. - Layer in Slow Cooker
Place onions on the bottom. Add pork on top. Sprinkle with garlic, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour cider around (not over) the meat. - Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours (or HIGH for 5–6 hours), until pork shreds easily. - Finish & Serve
Remove pork; tent with foil. Skim fat from liquid if desired. Optional: simmer liquid 10 minutes on the stove to reduce into a light gravy. Slice or shred pork and serve with onions and sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- 🥔 With sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, roasted sweet potatoes
- 🥗 With greens: Kale salad with apples and walnuts
- 🍞 For sandwiches: Shredded pork piled on crusty rolls with coleslaw
