This easy crock pot pork tenderloin is juicy and flavorful, making dinner a breeze. Simply add the tenderloin and your favorite spices to the pot and let it cook low and slow.
I love how hands-off this recipe is! Just set it and forget it. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without much fuss—plus, it fills the house with a yummy smell!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks well in a crock pot. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you could use pork loin or even chicken breasts, but cooking time will vary.
Chicken Broth: It adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to substitute with vegetable broth or low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You can also replace it with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness and help caramelize the pork. Agave nectar is a good substitute if you want a vegan option.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Searing the Pork?
Searing the pork is an essential step to lock in moisture and enhance flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding olive oil. This creates a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; it’s best to sear one tenderloin at a time if you’re using multiple.
- Sear for around 2 minutes on each side until browned. The color means more flavor!
Even if you’re short on time, this step adds a ton of taste. Just remember to let it rest after cooking for juicy slices!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s a great option for a hassle-free day when you want to come home to a delicious dinner!
Instructions:
1. Mix the Spice Rub:
Start by gathering a small bowl. In it, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, salt, and onion powder until well combined. This mix is what will give your pork delicious flavor!
2. Season the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure to cover it well so every bite is tasty!
3. Sear the Pork (Optional):
If you have a few minutes, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until it’s nicely browned (about 2 minutes per side). This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
4. Transfer to the Crock Pot:
Now, place the seared pork tenderloin into your crock pot. Pour the chicken broth around the pork, giving it some moisture for cooking.
5. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the pork to be tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The longer it cooks on low, the more tender it will become!
6. Rest and Slice:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in!
7. Serve:
Optionally, garnish your slices with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve alongside your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious, tender meal with minimal effort!
FAQ About Easy Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Frozen Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. If you cook from frozen, you’ll need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
What Should I Serve with Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spice mix and rub it on the pork the night before, then store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crock pot in the morning for an easy dinner!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.