Introduction
Looking for a tasty and simple dinner that doesn’t need much work? Try this Easy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin! It’s perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal but don’t have time to stand in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
The pork becomes super tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s great with mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a sandwich. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress without any stress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pork tenderloin:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce, optional)
Step-by-Step Process – Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Let’s walk through each step so you can make this tasty dish without any confusion.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Take the pork tenderloin out of the package.
- Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, onion powder, and thyme all over the meat.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Place Everything in the Slow Cooker
- Put the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce you just made over the pork.
- (Optional) Add chopped carrots, potatoes, or onions around the pork for extra flavor and a full meal.
Step 4: Cook the Pork
- Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- The pork is ready when it’s tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
Step 5: Make the Sauce (Optional but Tasty!)
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it and place it on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
- Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a small pot.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water.
- Stir this into the pot and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens—this takes about 2–3 minutes.
- Pour the thickened sauce over the pork before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can! Just remember that pork loin is a bit bigger and may take longer to cook. Make sure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Let the pork cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q3: Can I cook this in the oven instead?
Yes! Place everything in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 2–2.5 hours or until the pork is tender.
Q4: What sides go well with this dish?
Great question! Some tasty sides include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Green beans
- Roasted veggies
- Mac and cheese
Q5: Can I use BBQ sauce instead of the soy sauce mix?
Sure! If you love BBQ flavors, swap the soy sauce and vinegar with 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. It’s a different taste, but still very yummy!
Final Thoughts
This Easy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is one of those meals that tastes like you spent hours cooking—but really, your slow cooker did all the work. It’s juicy, full of flavor, and super simple to make.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just love easy meals, this recipe is a keeper. It’s perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook, give this slow cooker pork tenderloin a try. It’s comfort food made simple—and it’ll quickly become one of your go-to dishes. Happy cooking!
