Who says you need a long ingredient list for a show-stopping meal? This Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Honey Garlic Pork Roast delivers tender, juicy pork with a sweet-savory glaze using just pork, honey, and garlic. Slow cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully while the honey caramelizes and the garlic infuses the meat with warmth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, aromatic meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Honey Garlic Pork Roast
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless pork shoulder (or pork butt), trimmed of excess fat | 3–3 1/2 lb |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced or finely chopped | 6 cloves |
| Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste (optional) |
| Water | 2–3 tablespoons, as needed (optional) |
Instructions
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. If desired, season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- In a small bowl, mix the honey and minced garlic until smooth. If the honey is very thick, warm slightly or add 1–2 tablespoons of water to make it easier to pour.
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the honey-garlic mixture evenly over it, turning the pork once or twice to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7–9 hours, or on HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Start checking toward the earlier end of the cooking range.
- Carefully transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board or large bowl. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then shred using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- For a thicker, more concentrated sauce, skim excess fat from the slow cooker liquid or simmer it in a small saucepan for 5–10 minutes.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and gently toss with the honey-garlic sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm, spooning extra sauce over the pork and pairing with your favorite sides.
Variations & Tips
Keep it simple or get creative: stir in 1–2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a splash of rice or apple cider vinegar for a tangy, barbecue-style twist. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat—the honey balances it beautifully. Swap pork shoulder for pork loin if you prefer leaner meat, reducing cooking time to prevent drying. For a more caramelized glaze, spread shredded pork on a sheet pan, drizzle with sauce, and broil for a few minutes. Leftovers are perfect for rice bowls, tacos, or lettuce wraps; if the sauce thickens in the fridge, loosen with a tablespoon or two of water when reheating.
