Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is a fantastic, hands-off meal that comes out tender and full of flavor every time. The pork becomes juicy and soft as it slowly cooks, soaking up any spices or sauces you add. It’s one of those easy dishes that doesn’t require much effort but still feels special at the dinner table.
I love how I can set everything up in the morning and come home to the most delicious, ready-to-eat meal. It’s perfect for busy days when I don’t have time to stand over the stove. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, allowing the pork to become so tender that it almost falls apart when I slice it. A little tip I’ve learned is to sear the pork a bit before adding it to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor.
My favorite way to serve this pork tenderloin is with simple sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. The juicy pork pairs great with almost anything, and the leftovers make amazing sandwiches for the next day. It’s one of those recipes that feels cozy, comforting, and always hits the spot no matter the season.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly, staying tender in the slow cooker. If you can’t find tenderloin, pork loin roast can work but may need longer cooking to get tender.
Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs add a bright flavor, but dried versions work well too. If you don’t have rosemary, try oregano or sage as a substitute.
Balsamic Vinegar: It adds a nice tang and depth. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar with a pinch of sugar can be used instead.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Tender Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker?
Slow cooking is gentle, so the meat stays juicy and tender. Here are some tips:
- Sear first: Browning the pork before slow cooking gives a deeper flavor and a nice crust.
- Use a thermometer: Pork is safe at 145°F, so check temp to avoid overcooking.
- Low and slow: Cooking on low heat for longer preserves moisture and tenderness better than high heat.
- Rest before slicing: Let meat sit for 5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute and slices stay juicy.
Following these steps will give you tender, juicy pork that slices beautifully and pairs well with the flavorful sauce made in the slow cooker.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – I love my big slow cooker because it makes the pork so hands-off and easy to tenderize.
- Skillet – a skillet is essential for browning the pork to add flavor and texture.
- Whisk – useful for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping garlic and onion.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the pork reaches the right internal temperature.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of orange juice or apple cider vinegar to give a citrusy twist that brightens the dish.
- Try swapping balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms or chopped carrots during cooking for more veggie goodness.
- Marinate the pork in BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce before searing for extra flavor variations.
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme sprig, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and sear the pork tenderloins. Then, the slow cooker does the rest of the work, needing about 5 to 6 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high. After cooking, allow 5 minutes for resting before slicing and serving. Overall, plan for around 6 hours total with most of your time freed up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork:
Start by rubbing the pork tenderloins evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Be sure the seasoning covers all sides well for full flavor.
2. Sear the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork tenderloins in the pan and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes each side. This gets a lovely golden crust and adds extra flavor.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork tenderloins to your slow cooker.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chopped onion until mixed well. Pour this sauce over the pork in the slow cooker.
5. Cook the Pork:
Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork is ready when it’s tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Slice:
Remove the pork tenderloins from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle so your slices stay juicy and tender. Then slice the pork into thick pieces.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you want a thicker sauce, pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to your liking.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle the pork slices with the sauce and garnish with fresh thyme if you like. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker?
It’s best to thaw the pork tenderloins completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use a cold water bath for quicker thawing.
Can I Skip Searing the Pork?
Yes, but searing adds a delicious crust and deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, you can place the seasoned pork directly in the slow cooker, and it will still be tasty.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pork and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it juicy.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the slow cooker with the pork to create a one-pot meal. Just place them beneath the pork so they cook evenly.
