Cooking pork in a crockpot is one of the easiest and most foolproof ways to prepare deliciously moist and tender meat. But to get perfect results, it’s important to know how long to cook pork in a crockpot per pound. The cooking time can vary quite a bit depending on the size and cut of the pork.
As an avid home cook and crockpot enthusiast, I’ve cooked my fair share of pork roasts, chops, and tenderloins in the slow cooker. Over the years, I’ve dialed in just the right cook times per pound for fork-tender pork.
In this article, I’ll share my simple guide on how long you should cook different cuts of pork per pound in the crockpot to get amazing results. Let’s start cooking!
Benefits of Cooking Pork in the Crockpot
Before jumping into cook times let’s quickly cover some of the major benefits of using a crockpot for pork
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Tender, juicy meat – The low, slow cooking renders the pork incredibly tender and moist.
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Infuses flavor – The extended cook time allows spices, broth, and aromatics to deeply permeate the meat.
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Hands-off cooking – Just prep and add ingredients in the morning for a complete meal later.
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Makes tough cuts tender – Shoulder and other cuts become fall-off-the-bone tender
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Adds warmth to the kitchen – The crockpot gently simmers away, providing cozy warmth.
For set-it-and-forget cooking and fork-tender pork, the crockpot can’t be beat! Now let’s look at cook times.
How Long to Cook Pork Shoulder Per Pound
Pork shoulder, also called Boston butt or pork butt, is a top choice for the slow cooker. For bone-in pork shoulder, cook for 8-10 hours on low or 5-6 hours on high per pound.
For example, a 4 pound bone-in shoulder should cook for 32-40 hours on low or 20-24 hours on high.
Here are a few more pork shoulder tips:
- Cook for 8-10 hours per pound on low
- Cook for 5-6 hours per pound on high
- Use bone-in or boneless shoulder
- Add smoky rubs or chili spices
- Shred for tacos or sandwiches
With the right cook time, pork shoulder becomes wonderfully tender and full of flavor.
How Long to Cook Pork Loin Per Pound
For a boneless pork loin roast, cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high per pound.
A 2 pound boneless loin roast will need 12-16 hours on low or 6-8 hours on high.
Follow these guidelines for perfect pork loin:
- Cook for 6-8 hours per pound on low
- Cook for 3-4 hours per pound on high
- Use a boneless roast for uniform cooking
- Inject marinades for extra moisture and flavor
- Slice into medallions for serving
When cooked in a crockpot, the pork loin stays incredibly moist and makes elegant medallion entrees or slices for sandwiches.
How Long to Cook Pork Ribs Per Pound
For country-style pork ribs, cook for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high per pound.
For a 2 pound rack of ribs, cook for 14-16 hours on low or 8-10 hours on high.
Here are some additional tips:
- Cook for 7-8 hours per pound on low
- Cook for 4-5 hours per pound on high
- Choose meaty country-style ribs
- Add barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes
- Fall-off-the-bone tender
With the right cook time, the collagen in the ribs fully breaks down into mouthwatering tender meat.
How Long to Cook Pork Chops Per Pound
For boneless pork chops, cook for 3-4 hours on low or 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours on high per pound.
A pair of 8 ounce boneless chops will need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Keep these cook times in mind:
- Cook for 3-4 hours per pound on low
- Cook for 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours per pound on high
- Opt for boneless or bone-in chops
- Add cream soups, broths or barbecue sauce
- Check temperature for doneness
The low heat perfectly cooks the chops while keeping them incredibly juicy.
How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin Per Pound
Cook pork tenderloins for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high per pound.
For a 1 pound tenderloin, cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Here are a few tips:
- Cook for 4-6 hours per pound on low
- Cook for 2-3 hours per pound on high
- Use smaller 1-2 pound tenderloins
- Add flavorful marinades or pastes
- Cook until fork-tender
Thanks to the quick cook time, tenderloin makes an easy weeknight dinner in the crockpot.
Common Pork Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking pork perfectly in the crockpot takes a bit of practice. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Not browning the pork first for flavor
- Using the wrong cook times per pound
- Cooking on high heat the whole time
- Lifting the lid frequently
- Overcooking until the pork is dry
- Forgetting to rest the pork before slicing
Master your cook times for each cut of pork, and you’ll get amazing crockpot results every time.
Tips for Moist and Tender Crockpot Pork
Beyond using the right cook times, here are my top tips for insanely moist pork from the crockpot:
- Use bone-in cuts when possible for added moisture
- Inject roasts with broth or marinade before cooking
- Add liquid like broth, Coke, or apple juice
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness
- Let roasts rest 20 minutes before slicing
- Use natural release to let crock cool down slowly
With the proper techniques, your crockpot pork will turn out perfect.
Serving Ideas for Crockpot Pork Dishes
Crockpot pork pairs well with so many sides. Here are some fun serving suggestions:
- Pulled pork – sandwiches, tacos, rice bowls
- Pork roast – mashed potatoes, roasted veggies
- Pork ribs – baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread
- Pork chops – salad, roasted potatoes, ratatouille
- Pork tenderloin – wild rice pilaf, glazed carrots
With the right sides, you can create amazing family dinners or even casual game day fare. Get creative with the possibilities!
Fabulous Crockpot Pork Recipes
If you need recipe inspiration for your crockpot pork creations, here are some of my family’s favorites:
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Easy Pulled Pork – Shredded pork shoulder perfection.
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Crockpot Carnitas – Mexican spiced, fork-tender deliciousness.
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Maple Dijon Pork Loin – An easy, elegant roast.
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Coca Cola Ribs – Sweet, sticky and lip-smacking.
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Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy – Comfort food at its finest.
Load up that crockpot with your favorite pork cut and spices, and get ready for amazing results. Enjoy!
The perfect slow cooker dinner idea! Made with a savory, sweet orange sauce, this simple Crock Pot Pork Roast recipe is one you’ll make over and over again!
This Crock Pot Pork Roast should be your next go-to dinner when you want something warm and hearty. It’s great for a weekend dinner or a quick meal to make when you have a lot of things to do. This easy pork roast in the crock pot comes together quickly and only needs a little bit of prep work. It’s topped with a tasty orange sauce. It’s one of my best crock pot recipes!.
CROCK POT PORK ROASTLike this recipe? Pin it to your SLOW COOKER pinboard!Follow Real Housemoms on Pinterest
How to cook a pork roast in a crock pot
- You’ll begin by searing your roast on all sides. Since pork roasts don’t have a lot of fat, searing the outside of the roast really helps keep the meat moist. After you sear the roast’s outside, you can put it right into a crock pot or slow cooker.
- Next, you’ll whip up your orange sauce. This sauce is just the right amount of sweet and savory, and the pork goes really well with the citrus flavors in the marmalade.
- The last simple step is to let this tasty pork roast cook. Set your slow cooker to LOW and leave it on for 6 hours. As this roast cooks, your house will smell like oranges! When the roast is done, put it on a cutting board and cut it into pieces. Pour the sweet and savory orange sauce over the sliced roast or put it on the side.
If you’re roast is bigger than the 3 to 3 1/2 pork roast I used, you can determine how long to cook the pork roast in crock pot easily. On LOW you should cook the roast for 2 hours per pound and on HIGH 1 hour per pound + 1 hour. Just make sure your roast has an internal temperature of 145 degrees F tested with a meat thermometer.
This pork roast is a favorite in my family. It’s a great way to start a meal with time spent with loved ones after a long day. Smashed potatoes with garlic and butter that have been browned are my favorite sides to go with this slow cooker pork roast. For dessert, I like grilling peaches. I hope you enjoy this easy dinner recipe as much as we do.
Want more easy pork recipes?
Tools used to make this Crock Pot Pork Roast recipe
Large Skillet: This skillet is my go-to kitchen tool. It’s large circumference and high sides make it perfect for cooking anything from one pan meals to soups and sauces.
Slow Cooker: I love this crock pot! The lid is very secure and I can pack it up and take it on the go if I’m heading to a potluck. This slow cooker is a workhorse in my kitchen and has worked great for years!
Mixing Bowl: These mixing bowls are perfect for mixing and serving. I love the varied sizes so I always have to right size bowl for all my mixing needs.
Tongs: A good pair of tongs is a kitchen essential. I like having a couple sizes – a longer set for grilling and a shorter set for stovetop cooking.
How to make Tender Pork Roast in the Crock Pot (Boston Butt)
How long do you cook pork in a crock pot?
The cooking time for pork in a crock pot is determined by its weight. The general rule of thumb is to cook the pork roast for 2 hours per pound on low heat, or 1 hour per pound on high heat, plus an additional hour. For example, if you have a 3-pound pork roast, you should cook it on low heat for 6 hours or on high heat for 4 hours.
How long to cook a pork roast in a slow cooker?
Whether you brown the pork before or after slow cooking, don’t skip this step, it’s imperative for great flavour! How long to cook a pork roast in the slow cooker – for pork loin, 4 to 5 hours on low for tender, juicy perfection. Pork shoulder needs to be cooked for 10 hours on low for a 1.5 – 2.5kg / 3 – 5 lb pork roast.
How long do you cook a 2 pound pork roast?
For a 2-4 pound pork roast, you should cook it for 7-8 hours on low heat or 5 hours on high heat. For larger pork roasts, the general guideline is to cook for 2 hours per pound on low heat, or 1 hour per pound on high heat, plus an additional hour. For instance, a 6-pound pork roast should be cooked for 12 hours on low heat or 7 hours on high heat.
How do you cook a pork roast in a crock pot?
Whisk the sauce ingredients and then pour over the pork roast. Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on high for 6-8 hours or low for 10-12 hours. When the roast is done, strain out about 1/4 cup of the liquid into a separate bowl and stir the cornstarch into that liquid.