If you’re craving a dish that’s both sweet and savory, this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is the perfect choice. The pork loin becomes tender and juicy while slow-cooking in a flavorful pineapple glaze that balances tangy and savory notes. It’s a fantastic recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions when you want something delicious without a lot of effort.
By using your slow cooker, you can let the pork loin cook low and slow while you focus on other tasks. The result? A fork-tender pork loin infused with tropical sweetness and rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep the Pork Loin
- Trim excess fat from the pork loin. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks with juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ginger, and black pepper. Stir well.
Step 3: Add to Slow Cooker
- Place the pork loin in the slow cooker. Pour the pineapple sauce mixture over the top, covering evenly.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until pork is fork-tender.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)
- Remove pork loin and set aside to rest. Strain the sauce into a saucepan and whisk in 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water. Simmer until thickened.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice the pork loin and drizzle with thickened pineapple sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Variation
- Spicy Pineapple Pork Loin: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Hawaiian Style: Add bell peppers, onions, and carrots for a tropical touch.
- Honey Pineapple Glaze: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness.
- BBQ Pineapple Pork: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Pork loin works best for this recipe, but you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option (reduce cooking time slightly).
- If your sauce tastes too sweet, balance it with a splash of vinegar or soy sauce.
- Always let pork rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice or coconut rice to soak up the pineapple sauce.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad.
- Use leftovers in sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos for a quick meal.
Tips
- For extra caramelization, sear the pork loin in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Don’t drain the pineapple juice—it’s essential for flavor and moisture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6–7 hours (low) / 3–4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 690mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- Yes, but add 1/2 cup pineapple juice or chicken broth since fresh pineapple doesn’t have as much liquid.
Q2: Can I cook this overnight?
- Yes, but use the LOW setting and ensure the slow cooker switches to “warm” when finished.
Q3: How do I know when the pork is done?
- The pork loin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q4: Can I make this recipe with pork chops?
- Yes, bone-in or boneless pork chops work. Cook on LOW 4–5 hours or until tender.
Q5: Can I double the sauce for extra flavor?
- Absolutely! Double all sauce ingredients if you want extra for drizzling or serving over rice.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet-savory dish that transforms a simple pork loin into a tropical feast. Juicy, tender, and infused with pineapple glaze, it’s a family-friendly recipe that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. Whether served over rice or paired with veggies, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite at your table.