Slow-Cooked Savory Garlic Pork Roast
This Slow-Cooked Savory Garlic Pork Roast is a family favorite that fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it simmers away in the crock pot. With tender, succulent meat infused with the rich flavor of garlic and the sweetness of onions, it's a hearty one-dish meal that brings everyone to the table. Perfect for gatherings or weekday dinners, this roast is even more delicious the next day, making it an ideal option for meal prep or leftovers. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a comforting meal with very little effort.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Loin Roast
4-5 lbs (trimmed of excess fat)
Onion
1 large (sliced)
Bay Leaf
1 (whole)
Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons (none)
Garlic Powder
1 tablespoon (none)
Instructions
1
Spray the interior of your crock pot with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2
Place the pork loin roast in the crock pot, ensuring it fits well.
3
Layer the sliced onion on top of the roast.
4
Add the whole bay leaf, soy sauce, and garlic powder evenly over the top of the roast.
5
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 1 hour.
6
After 1 hour, reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 6 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
7
Once done, carefully remove the roast from the crock pot, allowing it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
8
Serve warm, paired with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow-Cooked Savory Garlic Pork Roast?
It is a tender, slow-cooked pork loin flavored with garlic, onions, and soy sauce, prepared in a crock pot for a hearty one-dish meal.
What cut of meat is best for this garlic pork roast?
This recipe specifically calls for a 4-5 lb pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat.
How long does it take to cook the roast?
The roast takes a total of 7 hours: 1 hour on high and 6 hours on low.
Can I cook the pork roast entirely on low?
Yes, you can cook it on low for approximately 8 to 10 hours if you prefer not to use the high setting initially.
Do I need to add water or broth to the crock pot?
No extra liquid is needed besides the soy sauce, as the onions and the pork roast will release their own juices during the slow cooking process.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. The roast is even more delicious the next day and the leftovers are perfect for sandwiches or salads.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 10 people.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can substitute the 1 tablespoon of garlic powder with 3-4 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
What ingredients are needed for this roast?
You will need a pork loin roast, one large onion, a bay leaf, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
Should I sear the meat before putting it in the crock pot?
Searing is not required for this recipe, though you can do it if you prefer a more browned exterior.
How should I prepare the onion?
The onion should be sliced and layered on top of the roast in the crock pot.
Is it necessary to spray the crock pot with cooking spray?
Yes, it is recommended to spray the interior for easier cleanup afterward.
What should I do with the bay leaf after cooking?
The bay leaf should be removed and discarded before slicing and serving the roast.
How do I know when the pork is finished cooking?
The pork is done when it is fork-tender and pulls apart easily.
Can I use a pork shoulder instead of a loin?
Yes, a pork shoulder or butt can be used, though it will have a higher fat content than a loin roast.
What side dishes pair well with this savory pork roast?
It pairs excellently with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Can I add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the pot?
Yes, you can add root vegetables to the crock pot at the beginning of the cooking process for a complete one-pot meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this pork roast be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked and sliced roast in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Why do I need to let the roast rest before slicing?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist when sliced.
What if I don't have soy sauce?
You can substitute soy sauce with liquid aminos, tamari, or a bit of Worcestershire sauce mixed with salt.
Is the garlic flavor very strong?
The garlic provides a savory depth but mellows out during the long cooking process, resulting in a balanced flavor.
Can I make a gravy from the cooking liquid?
Yes, you can strain the juices and thicken them in a saucepan with a cornstarch slurry to create a delicious gravy.
Does this recipe require a lot of prep time?
No, the prep time is minimal, involving only slicing the onion and layering the ingredients.
What size crock pot is recommended?
A 6-quart or larger crock pot is recommended to comfortably fit a 4-5 lb roast.
Can I double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients if you have a large enough slow cooker or use two separate units.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are savory and mild, making it a popular choice for families.
Can I use onion powder instead of fresh onion?
While fresh onion adds better texture and moisture, you can use 1 tablespoon of onion powder if necessary.
How should I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat slices in the microwave with a splash of the remaining juices to keep the meat from drying out.