Slow-Cooker Smothered Sweet Pork Burrito
Discover the rich and comforting flavors of Slow-Cooker Smothered Sweet Pork Burrito, featuring tender slow-cooked pork shoulder infused with a sweet glaze and smoky spices. Wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a tangy sauce, this hearty and easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and customizable to your taste preferences.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 burritos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using corn or gluten-free tortillas)
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chipotle or mild chili powder
- 1 cup tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- 6 to 8 flour tortillas (or corn/gluten-free tortillas as preferred)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Creamy cheese (such as queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or cheddar), optional
Optional Variations
- Diced jalapeños or hot sauce for added spice
- Additional veggies: bell peppers, corn, black beans
- Vegetarian substitute: jackfruit or mushrooms in place of pork
- Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder to create a flavorful crust that deepens during slow cooking.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Add brown sugar, chopped onions, minced garlic, tomato sauce, and a splash of lime juice. Stir gently to distribute flavors evenly around the pork.
- Slow Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 7 to 8 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred and Smother: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return shredded pork to the slow cooker to soak up the remaining sauce. Let it simmer on warm for an additional 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Burritos: Warm the tortillas briefly to increase flexibility. Spoon generous portions of the shredded pork onto each tortilla, then add cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Roll tightly to form burritos and serve immediately.
Notes
- Choose pork shoulder or Boston butt for best results with juicy, tender meat.
- Cook low and slow to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Layer flavors gradually by adding aromatics and sweeteners at different stages.
- Warm tortillas briefly before assembling to improve flexibility and texture.
- Allow shredded pork to rest in the sauce to enhance juiciness and flavor melding.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: slow cooker, pork burrito, sweet pork, smothered burrito, easy dinner, meal prep, Mexican, slow-cooked pork