Sometimes the simplest meals are the ones that surprise you the most. 2-Ingredient Crockpot Apricot Pork is one of those recipes that feels almost too easy to be true—yet turns out tender, flavorful, and perfect for busy families.
With just pork and apricot preserves, you can create a delicious sweet-and-savory dish that practically cooks itself. No complicated steps, no long ingredient list, and no standing over the stove. Just add two ingredients to the crockpot, turn it on, and let dinner take care of itself.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The combination of pork and apricot preserves might sound simple, but it’s a classic pairing. Apricots bring a natural sweetness and slight tang that complements the rich flavor of pork beautifully.
As the pork cooks low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender while the apricot preserves melt down into a glossy, flavorful sauce. The result is a comforting, home-cooked meal with almost no effort.
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights
- Meal prep days
- Family dinners
- Days when you just don’t feel like cooking
The Only 2 Ingredients You Need
That’s really all there is to it.
- Pork (pork tenderloin, pork shoulder, or pork chops)
- Apricot preserves (or apricot jam)
That’s it—no seasoning packets, no extra sauces, no complicated prep.
Tip: Pork shoulder will be extra tender and shred easily, while pork tenderloin cooks faster and slices nicely.
How to Make 2-Ingredient Crockpot Apricot Pork
Step 1: Add the Pork
Place the pork directly into the bottom of your crockpot. You can use a whole pork loin, tenderloin, or thick pork chops.
Step 2: Add the Apricot Preserves
Spoon the apricot preserves over the pork, spreading it evenly on top. As it heats, the preserves will melt down into a sweet, sticky sauce.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6–8 hours, or
- High for 3–4 hours
The pork is ready when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
Slice or shred the pork and spoon the warm apricot sauce over the top.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- No need to add water: The preserves create plenty of moisture
- Don’t overcook lean pork: Tenderloin cooks faster than shoulder
- Stir near the end: This helps coat the pork in the sauce
- Shred for easy serving: Especially great if using pork shoulder
Easy Ways to Serve Apricot Pork
This recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides:
- Over white or brown rice
- With mashed potatoes
- Alongside roasted vegetables
- With a simple green salad
- On buns for pulled pork sandwiches
The sweet, mild flavor makes it very kid-friendly and perfect for family meals.
Optional Add-Ins (If You Want More Flavor)
While the recipe works perfectly with just two ingredients, you can customize it if you like:
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- A dash of garlic powder
- A splash of soy sauce for sweet-savory balance
- A little Dijon mustard for tang
These are completely optional—this recipe shines even without them.
Storage and Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked pork and sauce for up to 2 months
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a spoonful of extra preserves if needed.
A True “Set It and Forget It” Meal
What makes 2-Ingredient Crockpot Apricot Pork so special is how effortless it is. It’s the kind of recipe you can rely on when life gets busy but you still want a warm, home-cooked meal on the table.
With almost no prep and simple pantry ingredients, it’s an easy dinner that tastes like you spent much more time on it than you actually did.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy slow cooker recipes, this one deserves a spot in your regular rotation. 2-Ingredient Crockpot Apricot Pork proves that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, two simple ingredients are all you need for a comforting, flavorful family dinner.