Name: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h 30 min
Total time: 6 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (4 lb) boneless pork roast; 1 cup brown sugar, lightly packed; 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened recommended); ⅓ cup soy sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons water

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and tender pork roast. The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the brown sugar, soy sauce, and applesauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that infuses the pork as it cooks. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal, as it requires minimal prep and cooks unattended in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Tender: The slow cooking process ensures that the pork roast is incredibly tender and infused with the delicious teriyaki-inspired flavors.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, this recipe is a breeze to prepare.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast:

Boneless pork roast: Choose a pork loin roast or a boneless pork shoulder roast for this recipe.
Brown sugar: Lightly packed, adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze.
Applesauce: Unsweetened or regular, adds sweetness and moisture.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the glaze.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce.
Water: Used to make a slurry with the cornstarch.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Roast

If your pork roast is very large, you can cut it in half to ensure it cooks evenly in the slow cooker. Rub the pork roast with the brown sugar, coating it evenly. Place the roast in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour the apple juice and soy sauce over the pork roast in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-6 ½ hours, or until the pork roast is fork-tender. You can also cook it on HIGH for a shorter time, but cooking on LOW generally results in more tender and flavorful meat.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Once the pork roast is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and cover it with foil to keep it warm. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. While the pork is resting, strain the cooking juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan with the cooking juices and whisk to combine. Cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the gravy thickens, stirring occasionally with a whisk.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the pork roast and serve it with white rice and the prepared gravy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the pork roast is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Let the pork rest: Resting the pork roast before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
Adjust the gravy: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more water or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a bit longer.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast

With Rice: Serve the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another classic accompaniment to this dish.
With Vegetables: Serve it with your favorite vegetables, such as roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a simple salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat the pork roast and gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

While a boneless pork loin roast or shoulder roast is recommended, you can experiment with other cuts of pork that are suitable for slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Sear the pork roast in a Dutch oven or a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and braise in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 2-2 ½ hours, or until the pork is tender.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced carrots, potatoes, or onions, to the slow cooker along with the pork roast.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the pork roast with a large portobello mushroom or a firm tofu block, and use vegetable broth instead of apple juice.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Roast that’s perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal. Enjoy!