Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork

This slow cooker Mississippi pork roast fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks and requires almost no hands-on time. The tender pork soaked in a savory blend of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and tangy pepperoncini peppers delivers a perfect balance of rich and zesty flavors every time. It is an ideal go-to meal for busy weekdays when you want something fuss-free yet hearty and satisfying.

I first made this during a busy workweek and was amazed how the whole house smelled amazing even before dinnertime. Now it is a family favorite that gets requested regularly.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder: 3 to 4 pounds trimmed of excess fat for tenderness and even cooking
• Ranch seasoning mix: one ounce packet adds herby, creamy notes and built-in spice
• Au jus gravy mix: one ounce packet brings a savory depth and slight beefy richness
• Unsalted butter: half cup cut into chunks for richness and to keep the pork moist
• Pepperoncini peppers: 6 to 8 from jar plus 2 tablespoons of the juice add tangy heat and subtle acidity to balance the richness
• Water or broth: half cup to keep things moist especially if your slow cooker cooks hot

Instructions

Sear the Pork (Optional):

For extra flavor, brown the pork shoulder in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. This step is not required but adds a nice crust and deeper flavor.

Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Place the pork shoulder directly into the slow cooker insert. Make sure the pork sits flat for even cooking.

Add Seasoning Mixes and Butter:

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the pork followed by the au jus gravy mix. Dot the top with the chunks of butter ensuring they will slowly melt over the meat.

Arrange Pepperoncini and Juice:

Distribute the pepperoncini peppers around the pork. Pour in 2 tablespoons of the pepperoncini juice to infuse more tangy flavor during cooking.

Add Water or Broth:

Pour half a cup of water or broth into the slow cooker. This keeps the environment moist, preventing the pork from drying out during the long cooking process.

Cover and Cook:

Place the lid securely on the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The pork is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Shred the Pork:

Carefully remove some cooking liquid, then shred the pork in the slow cooker using two forks. The juices will keep it flavorful and succulent.

Serve:

Spoon the shredded pork with some of the cooking juices onto rice, mashed potatoes, sandwich rolls, or your preferred base. Enjoy!

Pepperoncini have to be my favorite ingredient here. Their zesty bite brightens the rich pork in a way that keeps each bite exciting. I remember my very first time making this recipe with friends gathered around, savoring both the food and the easygoing vibe it creates. It has since become a permanent staple in my recipe collection.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The pork stays juicy thanks to the butter and pepperoncini juice. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find au jus gravy mix, you can substitute a beef bouillon powder mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickening. Italian seasoning may replace ranch seasoning mix in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor profile somewhat. Use fresh jalapeños sliced thin if you want to increase heat over the pepperoncini's milder tang.

Serving Suggestions

This pork pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or served in soft sandwich rolls topped with coleslaw for crunch. It also works great as a taco filling or served alongside roasted vegetables for a heartier plate. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top brightens the dish.

This dish’s balance of tangy and savory flavors makes it a reliable favorite anytime. Simply set it and enjoy the comforting aromas while it cooks to tender perfection.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What cut of pork works best for this dish?

Pork shoulder or pork butt with some fat is ideal as it becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.

→ Can I substitute the pepperoncini peppers?

Pickled peppers with a tangy profile work well, but pepperoncini provide a unique balance of mild heat and acidity.

→ How long should the pork cook for best results?

Cook on low for about 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

→ What side dishes complement this flavorful pork?

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or sandwich rolls complement the rich, juicy pork and absorb the savory juices nicely.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made in advance and reheated gently; flavors often deepen after resting overnight.