Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Pork and Cabbage Recipe

Tender, Juicy Pork with Flavorful Cabbage – A Simple Comfort Food Favorite

Looking for a no-fuss, hearty dish packed with flavor? This Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Pork and Cabbage is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal the whole family will love.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (Low)

• Total Time: 6–8 hours, 10 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Method: Slow Cooker

• Cuisine: American, Midwestern Comfort Food

  Ingredients

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, well seasoned (with salt and pepper or your favorite rub)

  • 1 medium head of cabbage, roughly chopped

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup water (or 1 can worth, about 240ml)

  Step-by-Step Instructions

  Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  Chop the cabbage into large, rough pieces. Avoid cutting it too small—this ensures the cabbage retains texture even after slow cooking for several hours.

  Step 2: Layer the Cabbage

  Place the chopped cabbage at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will form a flavorful bed for the pork to rest on and will absorb all the savory juices during cooking.

  Step 3: Add the Pork

  Season the pork shoulder or pork butt generously with salt and pepper (or your preferred spice blend). Then place it directly on top of the cabbage layer.

  Step 4: Season & Add Water

  Sprinkle an extra pinch of salt and pepper over everything. Then, pour in 1 cup (about 1 can’s worth) of water to help generate steam and create juicy drippings.

  Step 5: Slow Cook

  Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and falls apart easily. The cabbage will become soft, flavorful, and infused with pork juices.

  Step 6: Shred and Mix

  Once cooked, shred the pork directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Mix it well with the cabbage and juices. The flavors will blend beautifully into a hearty, satisfying meal.

  Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

  Serve warm. It’s perfect on its own or with a slice of crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or with a side of steamed rice.

  Tips and Variations

  • Add Onion and Garlic: For added depth, include one chopped onion and 2–3 smashed garlic cloves.

  • Boost the Flavor: Add 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar toward the end of cooking for a subtle tang.

  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.

  • Make it a Full Meal: Add diced potatoes or carrots for a more complete, hearty stew-style meal.

  • Low-Carb Option: Keep it simple with just pork and cabbage for a keto-friendly dinner.

  Serving Suggestions

  This pork and cabbage combo pairs beautifully with:

  • Buttered egg noodles

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Roasted root vegetables

  • Crusty bread

  • Rice or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb meal)

  Storage and Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Cool completely and freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.

  • To Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout.

  Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Only 3 simple ingredients

  • Perfect for busy weekdays

  • Budget-friendly

  • Minimal cleanup

  • Comfort food at its finest!

enjoy!