Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips

Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin: Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pork tenderloin, infused with a sweet and savory glaze that tantalizes your taste buds. This isn’t just a weeknight dinner; it’s an experience! For generations, pork tenderloin has been a centerpiece of celebratory meals, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. While traditionally roasted, our modern twist utilizes the magic of the slow cooker, transforming this classic cut into an unbelievably tender and flavorful masterpiece with minimal effort.

What makes this Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, the effortless preparation, and the sheer convenience of letting your slow cooker do all the work. The glaze, a symphony of sweet honey, tangy soy sauce, and aromatic spices, caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky, irresistible coating that will have everyone clamoring for seconds. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures that the pork remains incredibly moist and tender, practically falling apart with each bite. Forget dry, tough pork – this recipe guarantees juicy perfection every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant dish!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin:

1. First, let’s get our pork tenderloins ready. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear later on.
2. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This is our dry rub that will add a ton of flavor.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over both pork tenderloins, making sure they’re evenly coated. Don’t be shy! We want every bite to be flavorful.

Searing the Pork:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. We want the skillet to be nice and hot before adding the pork.
2. Carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloins in the hot skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re nicely browned. Searing helps to lock in the juices and adds a beautiful color. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
3. Remove the seared pork tenderloins from the skillet and set them aside.

Making the Glaze:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is our glaze, and it’s going to be amazing!
2. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined. Taste it and adjust the seasonings if needed. You might want to add a little more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness, depending on your preference.

Slow Cooking the Pork:

1. Pour about half of the glaze into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the pork to cook in.
2. Place the seared pork tenderloins on top of the glaze in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the remaining glaze over the pork tenderloins, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
5. Important: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.

Thickening the Glaze:

1. Once the pork is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside to rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.
2. While the pork is resting, let’s thicken the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This is our cornstarch slurry.
3. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining glaze.
4. Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent lumps from forming.

Slicing and Serving:

1. After the pork has rested, slice it into 1/2-inch thick medallions.
2. Arrange the sliced pork on a serving platter.
3. Spoon the thickened glaze over the pork, making sure each slice is nicely coated.
4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! This glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin is delicious with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for extra heat.
• Add some sweetness: Substitute brown sugar for honey for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Fruit infusion: Add a few slices of apple or pineapple to the slow cooker for a fruity twist.
• Vegetable boost: Add some chopped onions, carrots, or celery to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrients.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze and sear the pork ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
• Leftovers: Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans
• Rice pilaf and roasted asparagus
• Quinoa salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing
• Sweet potato fries and coleslaw
• Corn on the cob and a side of fruit salad

Troubleshooting:

• Pork is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the pork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, letting the pork rest before slicing helps retain moisture.
• Glaze is too thin: Make sure you use enough cornstarch slurry to thicken the glaze. If it’s still too thin, add a little more cornstarch slurry, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Glaze is too thick: Add a little water or chicken broth to thin the glaze.
• Pork is tough: This could be due to overcooking or using a cut of pork that’s not suitable for slow cooking. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut, so it’s important not to overcook it.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin isn’t just another recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that practically cooks itself! The combination of savory pork, tangy glaze, and effortless slow cooking makes it a weeknight dinner champion and a holiday centerpiece contender. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, look no further. The tenderloin emerges from the slow cooker incredibly moist and infused with the sweet and savory notes of the glaze, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve it sliced over creamy mashed potatoes with a drizzle of the pan juices for a classic comfort meal. Or, shred it and pile it high on toasted brioche buns for delicious pulled pork sandwiches. For a lighter option, try slicing it thinly and adding it to a vibrant salad with mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Sides: Pair this pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes. A simple side salad or a quinoa pilaf also complements the dish beautifully.
* Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with the glaze! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a splash of bourbon for a richer, more complex flavor. You could even incorporate some fresh ginger or garlic for an extra layer of aromatics.
* Spice Rub: Before placing the tenderloin in the slow cooker, consider rubbing it with a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This will add even more depth of flavor.
* Make it a Feast: For a larger gathering, double or triple the recipe and serve it buffet-style with a variety of sides and sauces.

I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other things.

Why You Need to Try This Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it’s:

* Effortless: The slow cooker does all the work!
* Flavorful: The glaze creates a delicious sweet and savory flavor profile.
* Versatile: Serve it in a variety of ways, from sandwiches to salads.
* Crowd-pleasing: Everyone will love this tender and juicy pork tenderloin.
* Foolproof: Even beginner cooks can master this recipe.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and what your family and friends thought. I can’t wait to hear all about it! Happy cooking! Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece on social media and tag me! I’m eager to see your creations and celebrate your success with this incredibly easy and delicious Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin.