Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin: The Perfect Recipe and Cooking Time

There are few things more satisfying than a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin. But, let's be real, cooking a tenderloin can be tricky. Overcook it, and it’s dry and tough. Undercook it, and well… let’s just say you’ll be wishing you'd stuck to the trusty chicken. But fear not, fellow food enthusiasts! The slow cooker is here to save the day! It’s the ultimate secret weapon for achieving melt-in-your-mouth, succulent pork tenderloin, every single time.

Now, I've been on a slow cooker pork tenderloin journey for years, experimenting with different recipes, tweaking ingredients, and adjusting cooking times. I've had my fair share of flops, of course, but I’ve also discovered some real winners. And let me tell you, the satisfaction of pulling a tender, juicy pork tenderloin out of the slow cooker, ready to be sliced and served, is pure bliss.

(Part 1) The Magic of slow cooking

For anyone who hasn’t embraced the slow cooker yet, you’re missing out! This magical appliance is a true kitchen lifesaver. It's all about low and slow cooking, allowing the meat to break down into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Best of all, it’s hands-off! You simply pop in your ingredients, set the timer, and forget about it. By the time you're ready to eat, your meal is practically ready to go. It's perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you just want to relax and enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your home.

Slow cookers are incredibly versatile, too. You can use them for everything from hearty soups and stews to succulent pulled pork and even comforting desserts! But for me, the slow cooker truly shines when it comes to cooking pork tenderloin. It’s foolproof, it’s delicious, and it's a real game-changer for any home cook.

Why Slow Cooking is Perfect for Pork Tenderloin

You might be thinking, "Why bother with the slow cooker for pork tenderloin? Isn’t it a quick-cooking cut of meat?" Well, it's a bit of a tricky one. While pork tenderloin can be cooked relatively quickly in a pan, it can also easily dry out if you're not careful. That’s where the slow cooker steps in. The gentle, low and slow heat allows the fat to render and the meat to become beautifully tender and moist. The result? A truly succulent piece of pork that melts in your mouth.

Plus, slow cooking allows those flavours to really develop. You can amplify the deliciousness by adding aromatic herbs, spices, and even a bit of sauce. By the time the pork is done, it's infused with an array of deliciousness. And don't even get me started on the ease of cleanup! Just pop the slow cooker liner in the dishwasher, and you're good to go. No scrubbing required!

(Part 2) Choosing the perfect pork tenderloin

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about choosing the right pork tenderloin. Look for a tenderloin that's firm to the touch and has a good amount of fat marbling. This will ensure that your pork stays beautifully moist and juicy during the slow cooking process. Avoid any tenderloins that feel mushy or have a strange odour. Trust your nose, it's a great indicator of freshness.

Now, let's talk about size. The size of the pork tenderloin will impact the cooking time, so it’s important to consider this. I personally prefer to use a smaller tenderloin, typically weighing around 1-1.5 pounds. This cooks up nicely in my slow cooker, and it's a perfect size for two to three people. If you're feeding a larger crowd, you can always use two tenderloins.

If you're unsure about which size tenderloin to choose, don't hesitate to ask your butcher. They're always happy to help you pick the perfect cut for your needs. Remember, a good butcher is a true gem in the culinary world.

(Part 3) The Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

Now, without further ado, let's get into the recipe. This is my go-to slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe, and it's a real crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, it's flavourful, and it's guaranteed to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound pork tenderloin, trimmed
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
5. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
6. 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
7. 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
8. 1/4 cup chicken broth
9. 1 tablespoon brown sugar
10. 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11. 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
12. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it's evenly coated.
4. Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, thyme, and rosemary.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork tenderloin, making sure it's fully submerged.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
8. Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
9. To make a delicious sauce, transfer the cooking juices from the slow cooker to a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favourite sides.

(Part 4) Cooking Times and Tips

You might be wondering, "How long do I actually cook this pork tenderloin?" Well, the cooking time will depend on the size of your tenderloin and the heat setting of your slow cooker. Generally, a 1-1.5 pound tenderloin will take about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. However, remember that everyone's slow cooker is a bit different, so it's always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer.

The pork tenderloin is considered safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). To check the temperature, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure it's not touching any bone. If you find that the pork is cooking a bit quickly, you can always adjust the heat setting of your slow cooker to ensure it doesn't overcook.

Tips for Perfect Pork Tenderloin:

1. Don't overcook it! Pork tenderloin can dry out quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn't get overcooked. A meat thermometer is a lifesaver!
2. Let it rest! After the pork is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
3. Use a good quality pork tenderloin. As I mentioned earlier, choose a tenderloin that's firm, has good marbling, and smells fresh.
4. Don't be afraid to experiment! This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to add your own favourite herbs, spices, and ingredients to make it your own.
5. Serve with your favourite sides. Slow cooker pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad.

(Part 5) Variations and Flavour Twists

I’m all about experimentation in the kitchen, and slow cooker pork tenderloin is a great canvas for creativity. Here are a few flavour twists that you can try:

Sweet and Savoury:

For a sweet and savoury twist, add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce mixture. The honey will caramelize in the slow cooker, creating a delicious glaze that coats the pork. You can also add a few slices of apple or pear to the slow cooker, adding a touch of sweetness and fruitiness.

Spicy and Tangy:

If you prefer things a bit spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of chili powder to the spice mixture. For a tangy kick, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce mixture.

Mediterranean:

For a Mediterranean flavour, add a few sprigs of rosemary, a tablespoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the sauce mixture, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavour.

Asian Inspired:

For an Asian-inspired flavour, add a tablespoon of soy sauce, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of ginger to the spice mixture. Add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce to the sauce mixture.

(Part 6) Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker pork tenderloin is so incredibly versatile that it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favourites:

Classic Sides:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to pork.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and asparagus provide a beautiful contrast in colour and texture.
• rice pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing helps to balance out the richness of the pork.

More Unique Sides:

• sweet potato casserole: A sweet potato casserole with toasted pecans and marshmallows adds a touch of sweetness and comfort to the meal.
• Cornbread muffins: These are a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with the pork.
• Apple sauce: A sweet and tart apple sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pork.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta with parmesan cheese adds a luxurious touch.

(Part 7) Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, don't despair! They're actually even better the next day! The flavours have had a chance to meld, and the pork becomes even more tender. You can store the leftover pork tenderloin in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How to Store Leftovers:

1. Let the pork tenderloin cool completely, then slice it into thin pieces.
2. Store the sliced pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. You can also freeze the leftover pork for up to 3 months.

Leftover Ideas:

Here are a few ideas for using leftover slow cooker pork tenderloin:

• Sandwiches: Slice the leftover pork and layer it on toasted bread with your favourite toppings.
• Salads: Add the sliced pork to salads for a protein boost.
• Tacos: Shred the leftover pork and use it to make tacos.
• Soup: Add the leftover pork to your favourite soup recipe for a heartier meal.
• pizza toppings: Add the sliced pork to your favourite pizza for a unique and flavorful topping.

(Part 8) FAQs

I've answered a lot of questions about slow cooker pork tenderloin throughout this article, but here are a few more frequently asked questions that I thought might be helpful:

1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar, but apple cider vinegar is my personal favourite for this recipe. It adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that complements the pork perfectly. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, you can use white vinegar or red wine vinegar. Just adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

2. Can I use a frozen pork tenderloin?

Yes, you can use a frozen pork tenderloin. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. It's a good idea to thaw it overnight to ensure that it's completely thawed.

3. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the slow cooker. I like to add carrots, potatoes, and onions to the slow cooker with the pork. Just make sure to add the vegetables during the last hour of cooking to ensure that they don't overcook.

4. Can I make this in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can definitely cook pork tenderloin in a pressure cooker. It will take much less time than in a slow cooker. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking time and pressure.

5. Can I substitute the chicken broth?

Yes, you can use beef broth or vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Just remember that the flavour will be slightly different.

(Part 9) Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! My go-to recipe for slow cooker pork tenderloin. It's simple, it's delicious, and it's guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table. Remember, the key to achieving perfectly tender and juicy pork is to cook it low and slow. And don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours and sides!

I hope this article has inspired you to try slow cooker pork tenderloin. It's a truly wonderful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or for those lazy weekend afternoons when you just want to relax. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!