Savory Slow Cooker Pork with Apples

Name: Savory Slow Cooker Pork with Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs pork shoulder; 2 large apples, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup apple cider; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 8 hours

🍽 Serves: 6

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Get ready to embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this Savory Slow Cooker Pork with Apples recipe. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish where tender pork meets the sweetness of apples and the warmth of spices, making it perfect for chilly days.

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Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Pork with Apples

The star of the show is the pork shoulder, which becomes meltingly tender after a long, slow cook. Apples add a natural sweetness and complement the pork beautifully. You'll want a large onion for depth and a bit of sharpness, while garlic adds a warm, savory undertone. The apple cider is not just a liquid base but also enhances the apple flavor throughout the dish. A touch of brown sugar deepens the sweetness and helps balance the savory notes. Olive oil is used to sear the pork, locking in its juices. Fresh thyme leaves bring a hint of earthiness, and the salt, black pepper, and cinnamon work together to season the dish perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow is best for tenderness.
No fresh thyme? Dried thyme works too, just use half the amount.
Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
For a thicker sauce, remove the pork and veggies, then simmer the sauce on the stovetop until reduced.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like farro or quinoa. For a greener plate, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. If you’re feeling rustic, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?: Yes, pork loin can work, but it might cook faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
What kind of apples should I use?: Go for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp; they hold up well during the slow cooking process.
Can I add other spices?: Absolutely! Nutmeg or allspice can add a nice complexity if you’re in the mood to experiment.

Savory Slow Cooker Pork with Apples Recipe Walkthrough

Begin by seasoning your pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This simple step sets the stage for the layers of flavor to come. Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the pork. Searing it on all sides creates a lovely crust that locks in moisture. This should take about 8-10 minutes.

Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker. Arrange the sliced apples and onions around the pork, and sprinkle the minced garlic over everything. This trio will cook down to a sweet, savory medley that complements the pork perfectly.

In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider and brown sugar until combined. Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker. It will bubble and mingle with the juices, creating a rich sauce.

Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves over the top, adding a hint of herbaceous aroma. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it work its magic for about 8 hours. By the end, the pork should be tender enough to fall apart with a fork.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Uses a slow cooker to make your life easier — set it and forget it!
Minimal prep work with maximum flavor payoff.
Great for meal prepping or family dinners.

Ingredients

2 lbs pork shoulder

2 large apples, sliced

1 large onion, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup apple cider

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the pork until browned on all sides.

3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.

4. Add sliced apples, onions, and minced garlic around the pork.

5. In a bowl, mix apple cider and brown sugar, then pour over the pork and vegetables.

6. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top.

7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until pork is tender and easily shredded.

8. Serve with the cooked apples and onions as a garnish.

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