Easy Slow Cooker Pork Roast Recipe Perfect for Sunday Dinner

Posted on November 15, 2025

Introduction

There’s something magical about a Sunday dinner that practically cooks itself, isn’t there? The aroma of a slow cooker pork roast wafting through the house makes everything feel a little cozier, and it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. I first whipped up this recipe during a busy week, desperate for something hearty that didn’t require me hovering over the stove. Let me tell you—it hit all the right notes! Tender, juicy pork infused with rich flavors, paired with simple veggies and a gravy that tastes like it simmered for hours (spoiler: it did, but the slow cooker did all the work). This comforting pork roast is now my go-to for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and even meal prep for the week. Trust me—your home will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the heavy lifting while you relax or tackle your to-do list.
Perfect for Sunday Dinner: This recipe is the definition of comfort food, ideal for gathering around the table with loved ones.
Unbeatable Flavor: The pork roast is fall-apart tender, seasoned to perfection, and complemented by a savory vegetable medley.
Simple Ingredients: No special trips to the store—just pantry staples and fresh produce you likely already have on hand.
Feeds a Crowd: Whether it’s just your family or you’re hosting friends, this recipe makes enough to satisfy everyone.
Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings, add extra veggies, or even switch up the liquid for a whole new flavor profile.

What sets this pork roast apart is the way the slow cooker locks in the juices and flavors, creating moist meat every time. Plus, the combination of herbs and seasonings gives it a slightly elevated taste while still keeping it simple enough for everyday cooking.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This easy slow cooker pork roast recipe focuses on wholesome, simple ingredients that come together beautifully.

Pork roast: 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder or pork butt works best for this recipe.
Garlic: 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (adds a rich, aromatic flavor).
Onion: 1 large onion, sliced into wedges for a mild sweetness.
Carrots: 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks.
Potatoes: 4 medium-sized potatoes, quartered (Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great choices).
Chicken broth: 1 cup (you can use beef broth for a deeper flavor).
Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons for a hint of tang and umami.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for searing the pork (optional but highly recommended).
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and rosemary for a balanced, savory flavor.
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons mixed with water for thickening the gravy.

If you’re out of certain veggies, feel free to switch things up. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even celery are excellent additions. For the broth, homemade stock will elevate the dish, but store-bought versions work just as well in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe.
Large skillet: For searing the pork roast (optional but adds great flavor).
Tongs: Handy for flipping the roast during searing and serving.
Small bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry for the gravy.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for the veggies and meat.

If you don’t have a slow cooker, a Dutch oven can work as a substitute. Just bake the pork roast at 300°F (150°C) for about 4-5 hours.

Preparation Method

Season the pork: Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. Rub it generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Sear the meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. (This step is optional but adds incredible flavor.)
Prepare the slow cooker: Add the sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the pork roast: Place the seared pork on top of the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce over everything.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
Make the gravy: Remove the pork and vegetables from the slow cooker and set aside. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the liquid. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Serve: Slice or shred the pork roast and serve with the vegetables, drizzling the gravy generously over everything.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Searing the meat: Don’t skip this step if you have the time! Searing locks in the juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the pork.
Layering the ingredients: Always place the vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker—they’ll soak up the juices and cook evenly.
Check for tenderness: Pork roast is done when it easily shreds with a fork; if it’s not tender enough, let it cook for another hour.
Gravy consistency: If your gravy isn’t thickening, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until smooth.
Make ahead: Prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, toss them in the slow cooker, and you’re good to go!

Avoid lifting the lid too often—every time you do, you lose heat and extend the cooking time.

Variations & Adaptations

Low-carb version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips to reduce the carbs without sacrificing flavor.
Seasonal twist: In fall, add cubed butternut squash and a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy, autumnal vibe.
Herb swap: Use oregano and sage instead of rosemary and thyme for a different flavor profile.
Allergy-friendly: Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Spicy kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne for a little heat.

I once added apples to the slow cooker alongside the pork roast—game changer! The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory meat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This pork roast is best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. Arrange the sliced or shredded pork on a platter surrounded by the tender vegetables, and drizzle the gravy generously over the top. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a side of steamed green beans for a complete meal.

To store leftovers, transfer the pork and vegetables to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Fun fact: the flavors deepen even more after a day or two in the fridge!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein and essential vitamins from the pork and veggies. A typical serving provides:

Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 15g

It’s naturally gluten-free (if using GF Worcestershire sauce) and loaded with potassium, vitamin C, and iron. Plus, the slow cooking method keeps the pork juicy without extra fat.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fuss-free, comforting meal that’s perfect for Sunday dinner or any day, this easy slow cooker pork roast recipe is exactly what you need. It’s hearty, flavorful, and customizable to fit your family’s tastes. What I love most is how the slow cooker does all the work, making it possible to enjoy a gourmet-style dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below! Did you add your own twist, or stick to the classic? Either way, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a bone-in pork roast?

Absolutely! A bone-in roast works just as well and might even add more flavor to the dish.

What’s the best way to prevent my pork roast from drying out?

Be sure to cook the roast on low for a longer period. The slow cooker helps retain moisture, so avoid opening the lid too often.

Can I skip searing the pork roast?

You can skip it, but searing adds a lovely depth of flavor to the meat. If you’re pressed for time, it’s still great without it!

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Use a cornstarch slurry and whisk it into the cooking liquid. Let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I cook the pork roast overnight?

Yes, cooking it on low overnight is a fantastic option! Just set your slow cooker to low, and you’ll wake up to a deliciously tender roast.

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