Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Roast

This hearty Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Roast has transformed our Sunday dinner rotation with its incredible flavor and minimal effort. The slow-cooked pork becomes so tender it practically falls apart with just a glance, creating a meal that feels special despite its simplicity.

I first made this Mississippi roast during a particularly hectic week when I needed something that would cook while I was away from home. The incredible aroma that greeted me upon return has made this a requested favorite ever since, especially when we have family gathering around our table.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder roast: 4-5 pounds. Choose one with good marbling for the most flavor and tenderness
• Ranch dressing mix packet: Adds herby flavor that perfectly complements the pork
• Au jus gravy mix: Creates a rich depth and savory base for the sauce
• Salted butter: Provides richness and helps create a velvety texture in the final sauce
• Pepperoncini peppers and juice: Bring a mild tangy heat that balances the richness
• Onion and garlic: Form an aromatic base that infuses throughout the long cooking time
• Chicken broth: Ensures there's enough liquid for proper slow cooking and flavor development

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create The Aromatic Base:

Layer sliced onions across the bottom of your crock pot. This creates a flavor foundation and prevents the roast from sticking to the bottom during the long cooking process.

Position The Roast:

Place your pork shoulder roast directly on top of the onion bed. Make sure it's centered in the pot for even cooking throughout.

Season With Flavor Packets:

Sprinkle both the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the entire surface of the pork roast. Use your fingers to gently pat the seasonings into the meat to help them adhere.

Add The Richness:

Place the quarter cup of butter directly on top of the seasoned roast. As it cooks the butter will slowly melt down the sides creating incredible richness throughout the dish.

Incorporate The Tangy Elements:

Arrange the pepperoncini peppers around the roast and pour both the pepperoncini juice and chicken broth around the sides of the meat not directly over the top to preserve the seasoning crust.

Add Final Aromatics:

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of everything. The garlic will infuse slowly into the dish throughout the cooking process.

Slow Cook To Perfection:

Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to LOW for 8-10 hours. The longer cooking time at low temperature ensures the connective tissues break down properly creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Finish The Dish:

Once the cooking time is complete use two forks to shred the pork directly in the crock pot allowing the meat to soak up all those amazing juices. Gently stir to combine everything evenly.

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The pepperoncini peppers are truly the secret star of this dish in my family. My daughter always claims them all for herself saying the long bath in the savory juices makes them the best part. We've started adding extra peppers just to avoid the dinner table negotiations!

Make-Ahead Options

This Mississippi Pork Roast is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble all ingredients in the crock pot insert the night before cooking and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply place it in the crock pot base in the morning and turn it on. The flavors have time to meld even before cooking begins which results in an even more flavorful finish.

Serving Suggestions

Mississippi Pork Roast shines when served over creamy mashed potatoes which soak up the incredible gravy. For a complete meal add a simple green vegetable like roasted broccoli or a fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness. Leftover meat makes outstanding sandwiches on crusty rolls with a slice of provolone cheese melted on top.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days. The flavor actually improves as it sits making this perfect for weekly meal prep. When reheating add a splash of broth to prevent drying and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

This versatile recipe works beautifully with other cuts of meat. Try substituting a beef chuck roast or even chicken thighs adjusting cooking time accordingly. For a less tangy version reduce the pepperoncini juice or for more heat add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also add vegetables like carrots and potatoes during the last 2-3 hours of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long does it take to cook?

It takes 8-10 hours on low or 5-6 hours on high in the crock pot.

→ What cut of pork should I use?

A pork shoulder roast is recommended for its flavor and tenderness.

→ Can I make the sauce thicker?

Yes, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the crock pot for 15-20 minutes on high until thickened.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5-6 days.