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Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Roast with golden honey glaze, rosemary sprigs, and roasted vegetables on a wooden cutting board.

Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Roast

Tender slow-cooked pork roast in a sweet balsamic glaze with honey, soy sauce, and herbs. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Additional Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 lb pork roast shoulder or loin
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 medium onion sliced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 2 tbsp water optional, for cornstarch slurry

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor.
  • Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork roast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, locking in juices.
  • Layer the Slow Cooker: Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the pork.
  • Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
  • Add Pork to Slow Cooker: Place the seared pork roast on top of the onions. Pour the balsamic glaze mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s well-coated.
  • Add Broth: Pour chicken broth around the pork to keep it moist during cooking, avoiding washing off the glaze.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  • Rest the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board to retain juices.
  • Thicken the Glaze (Optional): If desired, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir into the liquid and simmer until thickened.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Slice or shred the pork, drizzle with glaze, and serve with onions and sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • For best results, sear the pork to lock in flavor, but you can skip this step if short on time.
  • Check the pork’s internal temperature (145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done) to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Keyword slow cooker, Slow-Roasted Pork Shoulder