Crock-Pot Down South Barbecue
A tender, flavorful southern-style barbecue perfect for slow cooking, featuring pork, onions, and rich barbecue sauce, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put half of the sliced onions in the bottom of the crock-pot.
- Add the pork roast or picnic ham on top of the onions.
- Add water, whole cloves, and a bottle of barbecue sauce over the meat.
- Top with the chopped large onion.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 12 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, marinate the pork roast in the barbecue sauce overnight. If you prefer a smokier taste, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the sauce. You can also use chicken or turkey as a substitute for pork for a lighter option. For added texture, mix in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue pork on a toasted bun for a delicious sandwich, or with coleslaw for a classic Southern meal. It pairs beautifully with Krafty Crescent Lasagna for a comforting family dinner. You can also serve it with baked beans and cornbread as side dishes for a complete feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the meat in a covered skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This ensures the pork remains tender and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Down South Barbecue contains roughly 941 calories, with 40g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (138% of the Daily Value), iron (86% of the Daily Value), and protein (79% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1617mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken or beef instead of pork. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat used; chicken generally cooks faster, while beef may require a longer time for tenderness.
What kind of barbecue sauce works best?
A tangy, tomato-based barbecue sauce complements the pork well. You can also experiment with different regional styles, such as sweet or vinegar-based sauces, depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe in a traditional oven?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the oven by searing the meat in a pan first, then placing it in a covered roasting pan with the onions and sauce. Bake at 300°F for 3-4 hours until tender, checking occasionally.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).