The rich aroma of this Slow Cooker Pork Stew will fill your kitchen with the essence of comfort and warmth. Tender chunks of pork shoulder slowly simmer with root vegetables, herbs, and a savory tomato broth to create a dish that’s rustic, filling, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a comforting bowl of something homemade.
This stew is a meal-prepper’s dream — just toss everything in the slow cooker and let time do the work. It’s versatile, too: sub in sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even add some beans for a twist. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing meals for the week, this slow cooker pork stew is a reliable go-to that brings both nutrition and bold flavor to the table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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3 carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 pound baby potatoes, halved
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1 cup frozen peas
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1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Season pork cubes with salt and pepper.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear pork until browned on all sides. Transfer to slow cooker.
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In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker.
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Add carrots, celery, potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
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Cover and cook on LOW for 8-9 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
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If a thicker stew is desired, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
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Stir in peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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Discard bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 hours (Low) | Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
What Makes Slow Cooker Pork Stew So Special
Slow Cooker Pork Stew is the kind of dish that speaks to the soul — deeply savory, filling, and infused with flavor from hours of gentle simmering. What sets this stew apart from other slow-cooked meals is the combination of tender pork shoulder, hearty vegetables, and a richly seasoned broth that develops layers of flavor over time. This isn’t just a weeknight meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, the kind of food that makes you slow down, savor, and feel at home.
Unlike quick stovetop dishes, this stew takes advantage of time. By cooking low and slow, the pork becomes fork-tender, the vegetables absorb all the savory richness of the broth, and every bite carries the taste of patience and care. It’s a dish that rewards you with comfort, nourishment, and satisfaction — without demanding constant attention in the kitchen.
Ideal for Busy Days and Cozy Nights
One of the biggest advantages of Slow Cooker Pork Stew is its convenience. Whether you’re balancing a hectic workday, parenting duties, or simply want to avoid spending hours in the kitchen, this dish makes dinner practically effortless. Once the ingredients are prepped and the slow cooker is turned on, you’re free to focus on your day while your kitchen quietly fills with mouthwatering aromas.
It’s a fantastic make-ahead recipe, too. You can prepare it in the morning and let it cook all day, or even assemble everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator, ready to turn on the next day. This level of flexibility makes it a go-to meal for meal prepping, large family dinners, or cold-weather gatherings.
The Nutritional Benefits of Pork and Root Vegetables
At the heart of this stew is pork shoulder, a cut that’s both affordable and flavorful. When cooked slowly, it becomes exceptionally tender while maintaining a juicy texture. Pork is also a great source of protein, B vitamins (especially B12 and B6), iron, and zinc — nutrients that support energy levels, immunity, and muscle function.
The supporting cast — carrots, potatoes, celery, peas — brings in an abundance of fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. These root vegetables not only add flavor and texture but also enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. They make the stew filling and balanced, helping you stay satisfied without the need for extra sides.
Flavor Development Through Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is more than just a time-saver — it’s a technique that transforms simple ingredients into something exceptional. Over several hours, the pork releases its juices, the vegetables soften and sweeten, and the herbs infuse the broth with depth. The slow cooker acts as a sealed environment that locks in moisture, making every spoonful tender and flavorful.
The use of tomato paste and broth provides a savory umami base, while garlic, onion, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf build on that with earthy, aromatic tones. Optional additions like cornstarch can help thicken the stew for a more robust texture, creating a meal that feels indulgent while still being wholesome.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Slow Cooker Pork Stew is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It’s rich enough to stand on its own in a deep bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for color and a touch of brightness. For a heartier meal, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the broth, or spoon it over rice or mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
You can also pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A glass of red wine — something like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon — pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pork and the stew’s savory depth.
If you’re planning a family dinner or a casual get-together, this stew can easily be doubled and kept warm in the slow cooker for serving buffet-style. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the best things about making a big batch of pork stew is having leftovers — and they only get better with time. As the stew sits in the refrigerator, the flavors continue to meld, making day-two (or day-three) servings even more flavorful. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
It also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easier storage), and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot. You’ll have a ready-to-go meal that tastes like it was made fresh.
Ways to Customize the Dish
The beauty of a dish like Slow Cooker Pork Stew is that it welcomes creativity. You can customize it to fit your taste, what’s in your pantry, or your dietary needs. Try swapping regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness, or adding butternut squash for a fall-inspired twist.
Want more greens? Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard toward the end of the cooking time. If you’re looking for a spicier profile, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño. For added depth, a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can intensify the savory flavors.
You can also experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon to change up the finishing notes of the dish. The slow cooker base remains the same, but the stew can be adapted to suit almost any flavor profile or season.
Perfect for All Seasons
While this stew is often associated with colder months due to its warming nature, it’s truly a year-round dish. In winter, it’s a hearty comfort meal. In spring and fall, it’s a satisfying way to highlight seasonal vegetables. Even in summer, you can prepare it in the morning and avoid heating up the kitchen by staying away from the oven.
The flexibility of cooking it in the slow cooker also means you’re not tied to your stove, which is ideal for hot days or when hosting outdoor gatherings where the last thing you want to do is monitor the stovetop.
A Family Favorite That Keeps Giving
This pork stew isn’t just a recipe; it’s the kind of dish that becomes a family tradition. It’s dependable, budget-friendly, nutritious, and satisfying. It pleases picky eaters and impresses guests alike. And the leftovers can morph into new meals — think pork stew pot pie, stew over baked sweet potatoes, or even as a filling for savory turnovers.
Plus, the ease of throwing everything in a single pot and letting it simmer all day makes it a weeknight winner. If you’re new to slow cooking, this is a great entry-level dish to try. If you’re already a seasoned slow cooker user, this one deserves a regular spot in your rotation.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pork Stew is everything you want in a comfort meal — warm, flavorful, easy to prepare, and nourishing. It’s a dish that brings people together, fills your kitchen with rich aromas, and keeps delivering with every reheated serving. Whether you’re looking to simplify dinner on a busy weeknight, plan ahead for guests, or just want something cozy to curl up with, this stew has you covered.
Its adaptability, nutritional value, and deep, satisfying flavor make it a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire. Add it to your regular meal plan and discover how simple ingredients can turn into something truly special with just a little time and a lot of heart.