Are you tired of complicated weeknight dinners? Craving something flavorful and comforting but short on time? Then look no further! This slow cooker ground pork recipe is your new best friend. It's incredibly easy, requires minimal prep work, and delivers a delicious, healthy meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the pork: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground pork until it's no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the pork and vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, black beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This delicious dish is perfect served with rice, cornbread, or your favorite side.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ground Pork:
- Don't overcook the pork: Overcooked ground pork can become dry. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For a spicier kick, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, carrots, or zucchini. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites. Adding diced potatoes towards the last hour of cooking also works well.
- Make it a complete meal: This recipe makes a hearty, complete meal all on its own. However, you can easily add other elements to round it out, like a side salad, tortillas, or some crusty bread.
Variations:
- Taco Slow Cooker Ground Pork: Omit the kidney and black beans. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning instead of the individual spices. Serve in tacos with your favorite toppings.
- Spicy Slow Cooker Ground Pork: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño to the skillet with the onions and peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This slow cooker ground pork recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s a great option for meal prepping and is easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Enjoy!