This easy crock pot pork loin is super tender and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients, you can set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection.
I love how simple this recipe is. Just throw everything in the pot, and you can enjoy a yummy dinner without any fuss. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: A 2 to 3-pound pork loin is perfect for tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find loin, a pork shoulder works well too, just adjust cooking time as it may take longer.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture! If you prefer, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water in a pinch, but broth enhances the taste significantly.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice bite to the flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use yellow mustard or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Brown Sugar: It balances the flavors. Honey or maple syrup can substitute if you’re looking for a natural sweetener. Adjust the amount to your taste.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Browned Pork Loin?
Browning the pork loin enhances its flavor, so don’t skip this step! Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding olive oil. You want it hot to get a nice sear.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the pork loin in the skillet. Rotate it every 3-4 minutes until all sides are golden brown.
- This locks in juices and flavors before it goes into the crock pot.
Trust me, this step makes a difference!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Pork Stays Tender?
Cooking low and slow is key! Here’s how to get a melt-in-your-mouth result:
- Cook the pork on low for 6 to 8 hours for the best tenderness.
- Ensure the crock pot is covered during cooking to retain moisture.
- Let it rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, keeping it moist when sliced.
Following these tips will give you a delicious, tender pork loin every time!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Loin Recipe for Tender Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crock pot. Just set it up and let the crock pot do the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork:
Start by generously seasoning the pork loin with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Make sure to rub the spices all over the meat for full flavor.
2. Browning the Pork:
Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork loin and brown it on all sides, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds rich flavor, so don’t skip it!
3. Preparing the Crock Pot:
Now, place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the crock pot. This will create a flavorful base for the pork to sit on.
4. Adding the Pork:
Carefully transfer the browned pork loin and place it on top of the onions and garlic in the crock pot.
5. Mixing the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar until well combined. Pour this mixture over the pork loin in the crock pot.
6. Cooking the Pork:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork is done when it’s tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Resting the Meat:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Optional Gravy:
If you like, skim any fat from the cooking liquid in the crock pot. You can thicken this with a cornstarch slurry on the stovetop if you want to make a delicious gravy.
9. Serving:
Finally, slice the pork loin and serve it with your favorite sides. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely presentation!
Enjoy your tasty and tender crock pot pork loin dinner!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork loin is recommended for its tenderness, you can also use pork shoulder or pork tenderloin. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary; pork shoulder typically requires longer cooking to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, or even water if you’re in a pinch. However, broth adds depth and richness, so it’s the best option for flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or warm them gently on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork loin up to a day in advance. Just brown the meat and prepare the onion and garlic in the crock pot. Then cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook; it might require an extra hour in the crock pot if it’s starting off cold.