Cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot is one of the easiest ways to prepare a juicy, tender, and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just want a comforting dish ready when you get home, slow cooking pork tenderloin is a perfect choice. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best crock pot pork tenderloin, from seasoning to cooking tips and serving ideas.
What Makes Pork Tenderloin Perfect for the Crock Pot?
Pork tenderloin is a lean, long, and thin cut of meat that is known for its tenderness. Unlike pork loin, which is thicker and fattier, tenderloin cooks quickly and can dry out if not prepared carefully. The crock pot is ideal because it cooks the pork low and slow, keeping it moist and infusing it with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for a delicious crock pot pork tenderloin:
– 2 pounds pork tenderloin (usually 2 tenderloins, about 1 pound each)
– Olive oil (for searing)
– Seasoning rub:
– Brown sugar
– Smoked paprika
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Salt and pepper
– Dried herbs like rosemary or thyme
– Optional spices like cinnamon or chili powder
– Sauce ingredients (optional but recommended for moisture and flavor):
– Chicken broth or beef broth
– Soy sauce or coconut aminos
– Balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– Honey or molasses
– Garlic cloves
– Italian seasoning or fresh herbs
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot
1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
– Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork.
– Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick.
– Mix your seasoning rub in a small bowl.
– Rub the seasoning evenly all over the pork tenderloin, massaging it in well.
2. Sear the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
– Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This locks in flavor and adds a nice crust.
– Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Crock Pot
– If using onions, sauté sliced onions in the skillet until softened and lightly browned, then add them to the bottom of the crock pot for extra flavor.
– Pour sauce ingredients (broth, vinegar, honey, garlic, herbs) into the crock pot and stir to combine.
4. Cook the Pork Tenderloin
– Place the seared pork tenderloin on top of the onions or directly into the sauce in the crock pot.
– Add fresh herbs like rosemary if desired.
– Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for about 3 hours.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness-pork is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve
– Remove the pork tenderloin from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
– Slice into medallions.
– Optionally, return the sliced pork to the crock pot with the sauce for 5-8 minutes to soak up extra flavor.
– Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
– Don’t confuse pork tenderloin with pork loin. Tenderloin is thinner and cooks faster; using the wrong cut can affect cooking time and texture.
– Avoid overcooking. Pork tenderloin is lean and can dry out if left too long. Check temperature regularly and remove at 145°F.
– Searing adds flavor. While optional, browning the meat before slow cooking enhances taste and texture.
– Use a flavorful sauce or rub. Slow cooking infuses the meat with the sauce’s flavors, making every bite delicious.
– Add aromatics. Onions, garlic, and fresh herbs in the crock pot boost the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Crock pot pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with:
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Roasted or steamed vegetables
– Rice or quinoa
– Fresh salad
– Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Leftovers also make fantastic sandwiches or wraps the next day.
Cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot is a foolproof way to enjoy a tender, juicy meal with minimal hands-on time. With simple seasoning and a flavorful sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy the ease and deliciousness!