Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe is about to change your weeknight dinners forever. If you’ve been searching for an easy, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, this is it! Picture this: you throw a few ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and as you go about your day, the tempting aroma fills your home. When you’re ready to eat, you slice into a perfectly tender pork tenderloin, dripping with a sweet and tangy glaze. Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping, or entertaining friends, this dish strikes the right balance of simplicity and mouthwatering flavor. Trust me; you’ll be hooked after just one bite!

Why This Recipe Works

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin utilizes a perfect balance of spices and a flavorful glaze. The cooking method is simple, yet it transforms a modest cut of meat into a tender and succulent dish. The slow cooking process works magic by breaking down the pork fibers. This ensures each mouthful melts beautifully, leaving you feeling cozy and satisfied. Moreover, the vinegar and honey create a delicious glaze. This adds layers of flavor, elevating the overall profile which would make anyone return for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

You’ll adore this recipe for its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor. It’s wonderfully suited for busy weeknights, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of spices brought together with a sweet and tangy glaze. You get a dish that’s not only delicious but also memorable, making everyone at the table crave more. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, promising not just satisfaction but joy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork tenderloin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ⅓ cup low sodium chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 teaspoons corn starch

Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

Start by preparing your pork tenderloin. If it’s too large for your slow cooker, simply cut it to fit. This helps ensure even cooking, allowing the flavors to infuse better throughout the meat.

Season the Pork

Now, let’s season that pork goodness. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. With your hands, rub this seasoning generously over all sides of the pork. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavor immensely, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Create the Flavorful Glaze

Next, you’re going to whip up the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together low sodium chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, honey, ketchup, and corn starch. This creamy, tangy glaze will seep into the pork as it cooks, infusing it with incredible flavor.

Slow Cook the Pork

Place your seasoned pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Then, pour that beautiful glaze over it. Cover the cooker and choose your cooking time: high for 1.5-2 hours or low for 2-3 hours. Just wait until a meat thermometer reads 150-160°F—your pork tenderloin will be perfectly tender at that point.

Rest and Slice

Once your pork is cooked to perfection, carefully transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier tenderloin.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you love a thicker sauce, you can strain the glaze into a pot after cooking. Add a corn starch slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon corn starch with 1 teaspoon water, then pour it into the pot. Heat it over medium-high until it thickens to your liking. This will elevate your sauce to something truly special!

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, slice your slow cooker pork tenderloin and drizzle the thickened sauce over it. This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, making it a complete meal that’s as beautiful as it is hearty.

Tips for Success

• Proper seasoning is vital for maximum flavor, so don’t skip that step!
• The resting period for the pork will make a difference; don’t rush it.
• Cooking times may vary based on the pork’s thickness, so using a meat thermometer is key!

Variations

Feel free to express your creativity with this dish! You could add vegetables like carrots or potatoes right into the slow cooker for a one-pot meal. If you’d like a different flavor profile, try substituting honey with maple syrup. For a fruity twist, use apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic in your glaze.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Interestingly, the flavors deepen as they sit, making your next meal even more delicious.

Pairing Ideas

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin can beautifully complement:
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Steamed green beans or asparagus
– A light salad, balancing the richness of the dish

FAQs

1. Can I cook pork tenderloin on low instead of high?
   Absolutely! Cooking on low for 2-3 hours enhances tenderness.

2. Can I use a different cut of meat?
   While pork tenderloin works best, feel free to try pork loin or shoulder. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

3. What should I serve with the pork tenderloin?
   Consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice for a complete meal.

4. How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
   Use a meat thermometer; once it reaches an internal temperature of 150-160°F, it’s done.

5. Can I freeze leftover pork tenderloin?
   Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe simplifies dinner while delivering taste and comfort. The joy of using a slow cooker allows its rich flavors to meld together beautifully while you carry on with your day. Whether for a relaxing family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress everyone and leave them satisfied. Enjoy those tender bites and the compliments that will inevitably come your way!

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