If you’re looking for a delicious, hands-off dinner that’s full of flavor and practically effortless, this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is just what you need. Tender, juicy pork seasoned to perfection and cooked low and slow in a flavorful marinade—this meal is comfort food done right. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or preparing a special Sunday dinner, the crock pot transforms pork tenderloin into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
Best of all, this recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, and then the slow cooker handles the rest. The end result is a beautifully cooked, savory tenderloin with a flavorful sauce that’s perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1–1.5 lb pork tenderloin (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
Optional for thickening sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the Pork
- Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry and rub it with salt, pepper, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme.
Step 2: Sear for Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
- In a hot skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds great flavor and color.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and chicken broth.
Step 4: Add to Crock Pot
- Place the pork tenderloin into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over it, coating it well.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- Remove the tenderloin and let it rest. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Simmer until thickened, then drizzle over the sliced pork.
Variation:
- Sweet & Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Herb & Garlic: Add fresh rosemary sprigs and thyme instead of dried herbs for a fresher taste.
- Maple Dijon: Swap brown sugar with pure maple syrup and use grainy mustard for a sweet-savory glaze.
- Apple Infused: Add ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce or apple cider to the marinade for a fall-inspired flavor.
COOKING Note:
Pork tenderloin cooks quickly, even in a slow cooker. Overcooking can dry it out, so be sure to check it after 4 hours on low. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly done—145°F is the ideal internal temperature, followed by a 5-minute rest before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed potatoes: Serve sliced pork over creamy mashed potatoes with sauce spooned on top.
- Roasted vegetables: Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans on the side.
- Rice or couscous: Soak up the flavorful sauce with fluffy rice or grains.
- Dinner rolls: A soft roll makes a great vehicle for extra sauce and pork slices!
Tips:
- Always let the pork rest 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use a liner or spray the crock pot for easy cleanup.
- Double the sauce if you like extra to drizzle over sides.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender bite.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2.5–3 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: ~5 hours 10 minutes
🔍 Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fat: ~14g
- Sodium: ~670mg
- Sugar: ~5g
Exact values vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.
❓FAQs
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
- Yes, but keep in mind pork loin is larger and leaner. You may need to increase cook time and slice it thinner.
Can I prepare this the night before?
- Absolutely. Combine the pork and marinade in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Just place it in the slow cooker in the morning.
Do I have to sear the pork?
- No, but it enhances the flavor and appearance. If you’re short on time, you can skip it.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze cooked pork tenderloin?
- Yes. Freeze sliced pork with some sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings gourmet flavor to your dinner table with very little effort. With tender, juicy pork and a rich balsamic-garlic sauce, it’s a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight.
Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture that only slow cooking can provide. Whether you’re a crock pot beginner or a seasoned pro, this pork tenderloin recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your meal rotation all year long. 🍴