Savory Herb Pork Roast in the Crock Pot

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
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If you're looking for a hearty meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this Savory Herb Pork Roast in the Crock Pot is your answer. It's a hands-off recipe that fills your home with tempting aromas while delivering tender, flavorful meat every time.

Ingredients for Savory Herb Pork Roast in the Crock Pot

Pork shoulder roast is a forgiving cut that becomes beautifully tender when slow-cooked. The marbled fat ensures it stays juicy. Olive oil helps sear the meat, locking in flavor. Salt and black pepper are classic seasonings that enhance natural flavors. Dried thyme, rosemary, and sage form a fragrant herb crust, giving a nod to traditional roast flavors. Garlic adds a robust depth, while onion, carrots, and celery not only contribute to the flavor but also act as a bed for the meat, soaking up juices and becoming deliciously tender. Chicken broth keeps everything moist and adds an extra layer of savory goodness.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don't have a crock pot, a Dutch oven will work in a pinch; just adjust the cooking time and temperature as necessary.
  • For a slightly crispier exterior, pop the shredded pork under the broiler for a few minutes before serving.
  • To thicken the juices into a gravy, remove the pork and vegetables, then blend a little cornstarch slurry into the liquid and let it cook until thickened.

Serving Suggestions

This savory pork pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side salad to balance the richness. For a rustic touch, serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the juices. It's also fantastic in sandwiches, tucked into a warm roll with a bit of coleslaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, pork butt or even a boneless pork loin can work, but the cooking time may vary.
Is fresh garlic better than dried?
Fresh garlic is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but one teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
Can I add potatoes to the crock pot?
Absolutely! Cut them into chunks similar to the carrots and add them to the bottom with the other vegetables.

Savory Herb Pork Roast in the Crock Pot Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing together the salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage in a small bowl. This herb mixture is what transforms the pork into something special. Rub it all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get into every nook and cranny. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the pork on all sides. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don't skip it!

Now, grab your trusty crock pot and layer the onion slices, carrot chunks, and celery chunks at the bottom. These veggies will act as a flavorful rack for the pork. Place the seared pork on top of the vegetables, then sprinkle the minced garlic over everything. Pour the chicken broth around the pork, being careful not to wash away the herbs on top.

Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours. Your patience will be rewarded with pork so tender it practically falls apart. Once it's done, let the pork rest outside the crock pot for about 10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless slow-cooking magic: Set it and forget it.
  • Rich, herbaceous flavor that elevates a classic dish.
  • Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
  • Uses simple, staple ingredients you likely have on hand.
  • Great for leftovers — if there are any!

Ingredients

3 lbs pork shoulder roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp dried sage
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, sliced
3 carrots, cut into chunks
3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
1 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, and sage. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast on all sides until browned.
3. Place the onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the crock pot.
4. Place the seared pork on top of the vegetables. Add minced garlic.
5. Pour chicken broth over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
7. Remove pork from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing or shredding.

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