Cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot is one of the easiest ways to get a juicy, tender, and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just love the convenience of slow cooking, this method will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how to cook pork tenderloin in the crock pot with a straightforward recipe, helpful tips, and variations to suit your taste.
Why Cook Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot?
Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that can dry out quickly if not cooked properly. Using a crock pot (slow cooker) allows the pork to cook low and slow, locking in moisture and flavor. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth tender pork that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, crock pot cooking frees up your stove and oven, making cleanup a breeze.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
Here’s a simple ingredient list that packs a punch of flavor:
– 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 yellow onion, sliced
– 4 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
– Optional: barbecue sauce or mustard for extra flavor
This seasoning blend creates a delicious rub that enhances the natural pork flavor without overwhelming it.
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in the Crock Pot
1. Prepare the Pork
Start by patting the pork tenderloins dry and trimming off any silver skin. This helps the seasoning stick better and improves texture.
2. Make the Seasoning Rub
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over all sides of the pork tenderloins.
3. Brown the Pork and Sauté Onions (Optional but Recommended)
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor.
Next, add the remaining olive oil and sear the pork tenderloins on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. Browning locks in flavor and gives the meat a nice crust.
4. Assemble in the Crock Pot
Place the cooked onions in the bottom of the crock pot. Lay the browned pork tenderloins on top of the onions. If you like, add a few spoonfuls of barbecue sauce or mustard for extra taste.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Pork tenderloin cooks quickly, so slow and low is best to avoid drying out. The pork is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the pork from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
– Don’t skip browning: While optional, searing the pork and sautéing onions adds rich flavor that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
– Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check that the internal temperature hits 145°F.
– Adjust cooking time: If cooking only one tenderloin, it may be done sooner-start checking at around 1.5 to 2 hours.
– Add liquid carefully: Pork tenderloin doesn’t need much liquid. The onions and any added sauces provide enough moisture.
– Try different rubs: Feel free to swap the seasoning mix for your favorite spice blend or add fresh herbs.
Variations to Try
– BBQ Style: Add your favorite barbecue sauce halfway through cooking for a tangy, smoky flavor.
– Asian-Inspired: Use a marinade of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey before slow cooking.
– Herb and Garlic: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to the crock pot for an aromatic twist.
– With Vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms around the pork for a one-pot meal.
Why Pork Tenderloin is Best for the Crock Pot
Unlike pork loin, which is larger and tougher, pork tenderloin is naturally tender and cooks quickly. This makes it ideal for slow cooking without becoming dry or stringy. The crock pot method enhances its juiciness and flavor, making it a standout choice for easy, delicious meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crock pot pork tenderloin sliced over:
– Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
– Rice or quinoa
– Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad
– In sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings
Final Thoughts
Cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot is a foolproof way to enjoy a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal with minimal fuss. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a comforting dinner ready when you walk in the door.
Enjoy your delicious crock pot pork tenderloin!