Crock Pot Pork Loin – Easy Slow Cooker Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty and delicious meal with minimal effort, this Crock Pot Pork Loin is just what you need! This slow-cooked recipe transforms a simple pork loin into a juicy, tender masterpiece packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a cozy Sunday meal!
One chilly Sunday, I decided to try this Crock Pot Pork Loin recipe, hoping for a warm and comforting meal. The smell that filled the house as it slow-cooked was irresistible, drawing my family to the kitchen well before dinner time! My husband and kids loved it so much, they couldn’t wait to have it again. Now, it’s one of our go-to recipes for a no-fuss, delicious dinner.
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Pork Loin
•Effortless Cooking: Simply set it and forget it – the crock pot does all the work!
•Flavorful & Juicy: Slow cooking allows the pork loin to absorb all the seasonings, making it tender and full of flavor.
•Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
•Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover pork loin for sandwiches, wraps, or salads throughout the week.
Ingredients Notes for Crock Pot Pork Loin
•Pork Loin: Choose a 3-4 lb pork loin for this recipe. It’s leaner than pork shoulder, so it benefits from the slow cooking process to become tender and moist.
•Garlic & Herbs: Fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuse the pork with savory goodness.
•Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth to keep the pork loin moist and flavorful.
•Soy Sauce: Adds a hint of umami flavor and helps enhance the overall taste.
•Honey: Brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Recipe Steps
1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
•Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder).
2. Sear the Pork Loin:
•Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Mix the Sauce:
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•In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon each of fresh rosemary and thyme.
4. Add to Crock Pot:
•Place the seared pork loin in the crock pot and pour the sauce over it.
5.Cook:
•Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork loin is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest & Slice:
•Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the sauce drizzled on top.
Storage Options
•Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
•Freeze: Place slices of the cooked pork loin in a freezer-safe bag with some of the sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Variations & Substitutions
•Spicy Twist: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
•Apple Cider Variation: Use apple cider instead of broth for a sweet and tangy flavor.
•BBQ Pork Loin: Add a cup of your favorite BBQ sauce to the slow cooker for a smoky barbecue twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pork tenderloin instead?
A: Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours on low, as pork tenderloin is smaller and cooks faster.
Q: Do I need to sear the pork loin before slow cooking?
A: Searing adds a deeper flavor and a nice crust, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
Q: How can I prevent the pork loin from drying out?
A: Cooking it on low and ensuring there’s enough liquid in the crock pot will keep the pork loin moist and tender.
This Crock Pot Pork Loin is the perfect blend of flavors, offering juicy, tender pork that’s packed with deliciousness. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a satisfying meal! 🥔🍖✨
Crock Pot Pork Loin – Easy Slow Cooker Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb pork loin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or your favorite herb
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: fresh herbs like parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Pork Loin: Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Sear the Pork (Optional): In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork loin for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds flavor but is optional.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add to Crock Pot: Place the seasoned pork loin in the crock pot and pour the sauce mixture over it.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the crock pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the pork and serve it with the cooking juices drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.