Get ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Cranberry Pork Roast that practically cooks itself! Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, slowly simmering to perfection while you go about your day. This crockpot marvel is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and the best part? It's incredibly easy to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork roast
- 1 can cranberry sauce
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pork roast by patting it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and seasoning adherence.
- Season the pork roast generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, ensuring even coverage on all sides of the meat.
- Chop the onions into uniform medium-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
- Lightly grease the interior of the slow cooker or crockpot to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Place the seasoned pork roast into the center of the crockpot, creating a focal point for cooking.
- Scatter the chopped onions around and over the pork roast to infuse additional flavor during the slow cooking process.
- Pour the entire can of cranberry sauce over the roast, ensuring it covers most of the meat's surface for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Slowly add the apple cider around the sides of the roast, which will help create moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to low for a slow, tender cooking method.
- Cook the roast for 5-6 hours, allowing the meat to become extremely tender and absorb the cranberry and cider flavors.
- Check the internal temperature of the roast, which should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the roast and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the remaining cranberry sauce and cooking liquid as a delicious gravy.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Select a well-marbled pork roast like shoulder or Boston butt for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Browning: Always pat your roast dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful exterior and better seasoning adherence.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: Low and slow is the key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth meat. Resist the temptation to increase the temperature.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes to redistribute juices and ensure maximum moisture.
- Enhance the Sauce: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of orange zest to the cranberry sauce.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining unexpected guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
