Pork butt or shoulder is an economical cut of meat that’s perfect for making this slow-cooked stew topping for pasta.
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:10 hours
Total Time:10 hours 30 minutes
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Main Dishes
Method:Slow Cooker
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
UnitsScale
8 slices applewood smoked bacon, chopped
1 (2 pound) boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into 2 inch pieces
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
1 1/2cups chopped onions
2cups chopped carrots
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1/2cup chicken broth
1 (28 ounce) can fire roasted crushed tomatoes, undrained
1cup red wine (optional)
6cups cooked pappardelle pasta
Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Chopped fresh oregano leaves, basil or parsley, if desired
Instructions
Spray a large slow cooker with cooking spray.
In 5 quart Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium-high heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp. With slotted spoon, remove bacon to small bowl.
Season pork with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Add half of the pork to bacon drippings in Dutch oven, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned. With slotted spoon, remove pork from Dutch oven to slow cooker. Repeat with remaining pork.
Add onions, carrots, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to Dutch oven; cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.
Stir in garlic and oregano; cook for 30 seconds.
Add broth and wine (if using); heat to simmering, stirring to remove brown bits on bottom. Transfer mixture to slow cooker with pork. Stir in tomatoes and bacon.
Cover; cook on LOW heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or until pork is tender and easily falls apart.
Before serving, shred pork with two forks.
Serve over cooked pasta. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs.