I’m always on the lookout for a meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, and this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin definitely fits the bill!

It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want something comforting, tender, and absolutely delicious, with minimal effort.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making the pork so juicy and flavorful while you can focus on other things. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints.

If you’ve been searching for a simple, mouthwatering dish to try, this is it!

Why Choose Slow Cooking for Pork Tenderloin?

I absolutely love cooking with pork tenderloin—it’s one of the most tender and versatile cuts of pork out there. This cut comes from a muscle along the pig’s backbone, which doesn’t get much use, making it naturally tender.

While pork tenderloin is leaner than pork loin, it still has a rich, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with just the right ingredients.

Plus, because it’s low in fat, it’s a healthier choice compared to fattier cuts like pork shoulder or pork belly, but with the right preparation, it can still feel just as indulgent.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork tenderloin is not only delicious, but it’s also a fantastic source of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle repair and overall body function. At just 187 calories per serving, this dish is surprisingly light, making it a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake but still craving a satisfying meal. On top of that, it’s packed with nutrients like potassium, zinc, and vitamin B6, which all play important roles in heart health, immune function, and energy metabolism.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to serving slow cooker pork tenderloin, there are numerous delicious options. Consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to complement the meal.

If you want to enhance the dish further, think about adding a drizzle of sauce from the slow cooker or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. These accents can elevate the flavors of the already juicy pork tenderloin.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover pork tenderloin can be a boon for busy weeknights. Store any remaining slices in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, feel free to freeze the pork in individual portions. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating can be done gently in the oven or on the stovetop, with a little broth to maintain moisture.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

If you want to make sure your pork tenderloin turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips I always keep in mind:

Season Generously: While pork tenderloin has great flavor on its own, it really shines with a good amount of seasoning. Don’t be shy with the garlic herb rub—coat the meat thoroughly so that every bite is packed with flavor.

Watch the Cook Time: One thing to remember is that overcooking pork tenderloin can cause it to dry out. To avoid this, I recommend using a meat thermometer. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F internally, and remember, it’ll continue to cook a bit as it rests. This helps keep it nice and juicy.

Thicken the Glaze: If you like your glaze a little thicker, it’s easy to do! After cooking, simply strain the liquid and reduce it on the stove for a more concentrated glaze. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water) to thicken the sauce to your liking.

Let the Meat Rest: This step is crucial. After cooking, let the pork tenderloin rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful when you slice it.

Why Choose a Slow Cooker for Pork Tenderloin?

Sliced slow cooker pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables and fresh herbs on a rustic wooden table.

Slow cooking the pork tenderloin results in tender, fall-apart meat that’s infused with delicious flavor. As the tenderloin cooks, it soaks up the herbs and seasonings, resulting in a juicy pork tenderloin that is hard to resist.

Using a slow cooker also allows you to focus on other tasks or simply enjoy your day while the pork cooks to perfection. It’s the ideal solution for a hassle-free dinner!

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

To create this juicy and tender slow cooker pork tenderloin, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools, all of which are easily available on Amazon.

First, a Crock-Pot slow cooker is essential for cooking the pork low and slow, ensuring it comes out perfectly tender. It allows the meat to absorb the flavors from the sauce and spices as it cooks throughout the day.

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow …

Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving temperature
Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

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A sharp chef’s knife will be perfect for slicing the tenderloin into even, beautiful portions. A sharp knife ensures you can cut through the tender pork without tearing or squishing it.

You’ll also need a cutting board for handling the pork and any fresh herbs or vegetables. A sturdy, large cutting board will provide a safe surface for prepping all your ingredients.

For accurate seasoning and flavoring, measuring spoons and a measuring cup are must-have tools. They’ll help you get the right amounts of spices, liquids, and other ingredients to make your sauce just perfect.

Lastly, a tongs set will be handy for safely transferring the pork in and out of the slow cooker, ensuring that you don’t burn your hands while handling the hot meat.

These tools will make the entire process seamless and ensure your dish turns out delicious!

Ingredients

2 lbs pork tenderloin (or 2 small tenderloins)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, sliced
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: 1 cup of chicken broth or white wine for added flavor
Optional: 1-2 apples or root vegetables (like carrots or potatoes) for more flavor
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Prep the Pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika on all sides.
Sear the Pork (Optional): In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and brown the pork tenderloin on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. This adds extra flavor but can be skipped if time is tight.
Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. If using, add the apples or root vegetables around the pork.
Add the Pork: Lay the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth or wine (if using) for added moisture and flavor.
Cook the Pork: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the cooked onions and drippings for extra flavor.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 187kcal
Fat: 10g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 5g

So there you have it! This slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe is a game-changer for easy, flavorful meals. With just a few simple kitchen tools and minimal effort, you can enjoy a tender, juicy pork tenderloin that’s packed with savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. We hope you give it a try and enjoy the delicious results! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your experience with us — we’d love to hear how it turned out for you!