Boston Butt Slow Cooker Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a house filled with the aroma of a slow-cooked Boston butt roast mingling with hearty vegetables. This Boston butt slow cooker recipe with vegetables is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights and weekend family dinners alike.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming a modest cut of pork into tender, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth. Layered with well-seasoned vegetables, this dish is not only a comforting classic but also a one-pot meal loaded with nutrition.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, requires minimal prep, and delivers maximum flavor. Plus, the combination of root vegetables and savory pork creates a balanced, wholesome meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

If you’re looking for a dependable, delicious recipe that fills your home with warmth and your dinner table with smiles, this Boston butt slow cooker recipe is exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true slow cooker classic that is perfect for anyone who loves set-it-and-forget-it meals. The Boston butt roast is a flavorful, relatively inexpensive cut of pork that becomes incredibly tender after hours of slow cooking.

Infused with herbs, spices, and the natural sweetness of vegetables, the result is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for colder days or any time you crave a soulful meal.

Using the slow cooker means you can walk away and come back to a ready-to-eat feast. It’s ideal for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone who wants a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.

The combination of carrots, potatoes, and onions not only absorbs the savory juices but also adds texture and nutrition to the dish.

If you’re interested in more slow cooker inspiration, check out our Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals for delicious plant-based ideas that are just as easy and comforting.

Ingredients

  • 4-5 pounds Boston butt pork roast, trimmed of excess fat
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered (Yukon gold or russet work well)
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl for seasoning blend
  • Tongs or large fork for handling the roast
  • Skillet or frying pan (optional, for searing the roast)
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for resting the meat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into large chunks. Slice the onions and mince the garlic. Place all vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker in an even layer.
  2. Mix the seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well.
  3. Season the Boston butt: Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the roast, then coat it evenly with the seasoning blend, pressing gently so the spices adhere.
  4. Sear the roast (optional but recommended): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned roast for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  5. Place the roast in the slow cooker: Set the seasoned (and seared) Boston butt on top of the vegetable bed in the slow cooker.
  6. Add garlic and liquids: Scatter the minced garlic over the top. Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar around the roast (not directly on top to avoid washing away the seasoning).
  7. Cover and cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or on high for 5-6 hours. The meat should be fork-tender and easily pull apart.
  8. Rest the meat: Once cooked, carefully remove the roast and let it rest on a cutting board covered loosely with foil for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Serve: Shred or slice the pork as desired. Serve alongside the slow-cooked vegetables, spooning some of the cooking juices on top for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

For the juiciest pork, avoid lifting the slow cooker lid too often during cooking as it extends the cooking time.

  • Searing the pork before slow cooking enhances flavor but is optional for a quicker prep.
  • Vegetable swaps: Try adding parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips for a different flavor profile.
  • Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. For a vegan-friendly spice blend inspiration, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
  • Make it a complete meal: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.
  • Leftovers: Use shredded pork for tacos, sandwiches, or add to soups.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 38 g
Fat 25 g
Carbohydrates 16 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 600 mg
Sugars 4 g

Note: Nutrition facts can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Serving Suggestions

This Boston butt slow cooker roast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to round out the meal. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to add freshness and color to your plate.

For a cozy, hearty meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta make excellent companions. If you love bread, a warm crusty baguette or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious braising juices.

For more vegetable-packed, wholesome ideas, explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for nutritious sides and main dishes that complement this recipe perfectly.

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or just want a comforting meal ready when you walk in the door, this Boston butt slow cooker recipe with vegetables is a winner. The tender pork combined with the sweet, savory vegetables creates a harmonious dish that is both satisfying and simple.

The slow cooker does the hard work, making this recipe perfect for busy days or when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious feast that will impress your loved ones and fill your home with warmth and wonderful aromas. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetable combinations and spices to make this dish your own.

And if you’re looking for more inspiration for easy, wholesome meals, be sure to check out our other recipes for ideas that will keep your dinner routine exciting and delicious.

📖 Recipe Card: Boston Butt Slow Cooker Recipe with Vegetables

Description: A tender and flavorful slow-cooked Boston butt with hearty vegetables. Perfect for an easy and comforting meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT8H
Total Time: PT8H20M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs Boston butt pork shoulder
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Instructions

  1. Season the Boston butt with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the pork on all sides until browned.
  3. Place chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
  4. Add the seared pork on top of the vegetables.
  5. Stir chicken broth and tomato paste, then pour over the pork and vegetables.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until pork is tender.
  7. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with the vegetables before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 40 g | Fat: 30 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Marta K

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