The aroma of a perfectly cooked Crockpot Pork Tenderloin fills the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort. perfect side dish for pork Tender, juicy meat infused with spices and savory goodness is an experience that makes your taste buds dance.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my family gathered around the dinner table, eyes wide and mouths watering, eager for a taste of the magic bubbling away in the slow cooker. slow cooker recipes for dinner It’s a meal that’s easy to whip up on busy weekdays or fancy enough for special occasions. flavorful taco recipe Trust me; your taste buds are in for a treat. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Mexican Birria Tacos recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Pork Tenderloin requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor
- The tender meat practically falls apart and melts in your mouth
- Its beautiful golden-brown color will impress guests at any dinner party
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family gathering, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion
Cooking this tenderloin is an experience in itself; my kids still rave about it after all these years.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Tenderloin: Look for a lean cut, about 1-2 pounds for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic amps up the flavor profile, so choose firm bulbs for the best results.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; try yellow for balance or red for extra color.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping the meat moist during cooking. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Creamy Chicken Marsala recipe.
- Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite brand works wonders here; opt for a sweet and tangy version to enhance flavors.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): These herbs elevate the dish with aromatic notes—fresh if you have them!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep the Ingredients: Start by peeling and mincing your garlic cloves until fragrant; chop the onion into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside, ready to work their magic.
Sear the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sear each side of the pork tenderloin until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Add to Crockpot: Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker. Layer the minced garlic and chopped onion over it like you’re building a flavorful fortress.
Pour in Liquids and Seasonings: Pour chicken broth over everything, followed by your barbecue sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. It should smell divine already!
Cook Low and Slow: Set your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the better it will be—just don’t forget about it!
Shred and Serve: Once cooked through, remove the tenderloin from the pot and shred using two forks. Return it to the pot to soak up all those glorious juices before serving.
And voilà! You’ve created a masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds. Enjoy with rice or roasted veggies—your choice!
You Must Know
- Cooking a Crockpot Pork Tenderloin unlocks a world of flavor; the slow cooking process makes it incredibly tender
- The aromas wafting through your home will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if your kitchen skills resemble those of a caveman
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by seasoning the pork tenderloin, then sear it for extra flavor before placing it in the crockpot with veggies and broth. This step enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out seasonings or add fruits like apples or cranberries for a sweet twist. sweet and savory chicken dish A dash of balsamic vinegar can elevate flavors, making your dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on low heat in a skillet to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F
- Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy and tender
- Let it rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes before slicing for maximum tenderness
Cooking my first Crockpot Pork Tenderloin was a game-changer; friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary wizard, impressing everyone without breaking a sweat.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook a Crockpot Pork Tenderloin?
Cooking time generally ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low heat for best results.
Can I freeze leftover Crockpot Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, this dish freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing.
What should I serve with pork tenderloin?
Pair it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal experience.
Crockpot Pork Tenderloin
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Crockpot Pork Tenderloin is a tender, flavorful dish that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven. Infused with savory spices and slowly cooked to perfection, this meal is both effortless and impressive. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, your family will be begging for seconds. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1–2 lbs Pork Tenderloin
- 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 Medium Onion, chopped
- 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 tsp Dried Rosemary
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare by peeling and mincing garlic cloves and chopping the onion.
- Sear the pork tenderloin in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place the seared pork in the crockpot and layer with minced garlic and chopped onion.
- Pour chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the meat. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and return it to the pot to soak up juices before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
