This crock pot pork roast is full of flavor and so easy to make. It’s done in the crockpot and only has 5 ingredients. Dinner has never been easier or more delicious.
Crockpot Pork Roast was the perfect post holiday meal. After the holidays I always struggle a bit with getting back into the swing of cooking. My excuse is usually that I cooked so much over the holidays that I’m just cooked out. I can’t use that excuse this year because I didn’t really cook for Thanksgiving. We were in Utah and I bought the pies!.
Pork shoulder also known as Boston butt, is one of the best cuts of meat for making insanely delicious pulled pork in a crockpot. When cooked low and slow the pork shoulder transforms from a tough cut into fall-apart tender, juicy shredded meat. But exactly how long does it take to cook a pork shoulder in a crockpot? Here’s a complete guide to nailing pulled pork perfection.
Why Cook Pork Shoulder in a Crockpot?
Cooking pork shoulder in a crockpot is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it method. The slow cooking tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
Benefits of using a crockpot include
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Convenience – Just throw in the ingredients and let it cook unattended for hours No need to slave over a hot stove or grill
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Tender, juicy meat – The low heat and moist environment turns tough collagen into gelatin, keeping the pork super succulent.
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Infused flavor – The pork shoulder cooks in its own juices, absorbing spices and seasonings thoroughly.
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Shreddable texture – Slow cooking breaks down the meat’s fibers resulting in pork that pulls apart easily.
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Serves a crowd – A pork shoulder feeds a small army, perfect for big get-togethers and parties.
How Long to Cook Pork Shoulder in a Crockpot
Cooking time depends on a few factors:
Size of the pork shoulder – A bigger roast needs more time. Plan for 1-1.5 hours per pound.
Bone-in or boneless – Bone-in takes a little longer. The bone acts as an insulator.
High or low setting – Low (200°F) requires 8-10 hours. High (300°F) needs 4-6 hours.
Here are general guidelines:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder on LOW: 8-10 hours
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder on HIGH: 4-6 hours
- 5-6 lb pork shoulder on LOW: 10-12 hours
- 5-6 lb pork shoulder on HIGH: 6-8 hours
For best results, cook on low. The slower pace allows the collagen to fully break down over time.
How to Tell When It’s Done
Check temperature – Use an instant read thermometer to test for doneness. Insert into the thickest part of the meat.
- For pulled pork, cook to 195°F – 205°F.
Check for tenderness – Stick a fork in the pork shoulder. If it slides in easily and the meat shreds readily, it’s done.
Visually inspect – The meat should look very tender. The bone (if bone-in) should wiggle easily.
Step-by-Step Guide for Cooking Pork Shoulder in a Crockpot
Follow these simple steps for foolproof pulled pork every time:
1. Prepare the pork shoulder
- Trim off excess fat
- Pat dry
- Generously season all over with salt, pepper, spices, etc.
2. Brown the pork shoulder (optional but recommended)
- Quickly brown the seasoned pork shoulder in a skillet on all sides.
3. Add aromatics to the crockpot
- Onions, garlic, broth, beer, etc.
4. Place pork in crockpot
- Pork should sit above liquid.
5. Cook on low 8-10 hours or high 4-6 hours
- Until fork tender and 195°F-205°F internally.
6. Remove pork and let rest 10-30 mins
- Allows juices to redistribute.
7. Shred pork with two forks
- Discard excess fat.
8. Moisten with cooking liquid
- Add back just enough liquid to moisten shredded pork.
9. Serve and enjoy!
- Pile pork on buns, tacos, baked potatoes – anything goes!
Pro tip: Mix in your favorite barbecue sauce to add sticky sweetness and tang.
Pork Shoulder Crockpot Tips
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Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and oregano for extra flavor.
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Use chicken or beef broth instead of water for richer taste.
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Slice an onion and nestle it underneath the pork to add moisture.
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Flip the pork shoulder halfway through cooking for even doneness.
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Remove bones after cooking for easier shredding.
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Stir in a bit of vinegar or sauce to brighten the flavor before serving.
Flavorful Crockpot Pork Shoulder Recipes to Try
Pulled Pork Tacos – Top with salsa, avocado, cilantro for a tasty taco night.
Carnitas – Mexican-spiced pulled pork, great in tacos or burritos.
Luau Pulled Pork – A Hawaiian twist with pineapple and spices.
Pulled Pork Egg Rolls – Handheld appetizers stuffed with savory pork.
Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie – Comfort food at its finest!
Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese – Cheesy pasta studded with tender shredded pork.
Get Creative With Leftover Pulled Pork
Leftover pulled pork freezes wonderfully for future meals. Here are some tasty ways to use it:
- Breakfast burritos or hash with eggs
- Mix into fried rice or bibimbap
- Stuff into omelets or frittatas
- Fold into cornbread batter or biscuit dough
- Top baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Toss with barbecue sauce and serve on slider buns
- Stir into pasta salad, potato salad or coleslaw
- Fold into dumpling or egg roll wrappers
- Stuff into bell peppers or hollowed out squash
- Layer into sandwiches or subs
With so many possibilities, you’ll look forward to leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Pork Shoulders
Should I trim the fat cap?
For pulled pork, leave it on. The fat renders slowly, keeping the pork moist. Remove after cooking if desired.
Can I cook it from frozen?
Yes, just add 1-2 hours to the cook time. Defrosting is recommended but not required.
Should I sear the pork first?
Browning adds flavor but isn’t mandatory. Consider it optional.
What liquid should I use?
Chicken/beef broth, apple cider, beer, water, or a mix all work great.
Do I need to flip the pork?
Flipping halfway through helps ensure even cooking, but isn’t strictly necessary.
Should I rest it before pulling/shredding?
Yes, resting for 10-30 minutes allows juices to redistribute.
Finally, be sure to share photos of your masterful pulled pork creations on social media and tag @recipes so we can admire your work!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This week’s Crockpot Pork Roast recipe was just what the doctor ordered. We love a good pork roast or pork tenderloin around here. It smelled wonderful as it cooked and tasted great. The best part was how easy it was. A great way for me to get back into cooking! One great thing about this pork roast is that you can make it in a lot of different ways. It’s good as is, or you can add potatoes and vegetables and call it a meal. We decided to make Pork Nachos out of it and they were delicious. Another great way to use the pork is to shred it and put it in a taco, burrito, enchilada, quesadilla, etc.
