This glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin is super tender and packed with flavor! The sweet glaze makes it a hit at dinner, and the best part is, it cooks itself while you relax.
Who knew cooking could be this easy? Just toss the pork in the slow cooker, pour on the glaze, and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days when you need a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and juicy, perfect for slow cooking. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute with chicken breast or turkey tenderloin, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Beef Broth: It adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a milder taste.
Soy Sauce: This gives a nice umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. If you want a less salty taste, low-sodium soy sauce works well.
Brown Sugar: This provides sweetness and depth. You can replace it with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Honey can also be used if you want to skip the brown sugar altogether.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness. Lemon juice can be a nice alternative, just use a little less as it’s more acidic.
How Do I Ensure the Pork is Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
The key to achieving tender pork tenderloin is in the cooking time and method. While you can skip searing, browning the meat adds extra flavor and color to the dish. Remember these tips:
- Use a meat thermometer. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juiciness.
- Cook slowly! Low and slow is the name of the game. The longer cooking time breaks down the meat fibers.
- If thickening the sauce with cornstarch, do it near the end to keep the flavors fresh. Mix it well to avoid lumps.
How to Make Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let the slow cooker do its magic for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. In total, expect to dedicate a bit of time for prepping and cooking, making this perfect for a hassle-free dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by seasoning the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper on all sides. This will give it a tasty base before cooking.
2. Brown the Pork (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it looks nicely browned. This step is optional but really adds great flavor to the pork!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and set it aside.
4. Slow Cook:
Now, place the seared pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Pour the delicious sauce mixture over the pork, making sure it’s well coated.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer your sauce a bit thicker, you can do a quick step to achieve that. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve:
Slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle the rich sauce over the top. For a lovely touch, garnish with some fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is the best choice for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or even chicken breast. Just adjust the cooking time as needed: pork loin may take a bit longer, while chicken tends to cook faster.
Can I Substitute the Soy Sauce?
Yes, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a lower-sodium alternative, try using reduced-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which also offer a delicious flavor without the extra salt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork with the sauce in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I Cook This on the Stovetop Instead?
Yes, you can! After browning the pork, transfer it to a pot and add the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender. Just make sure to check it occasionally and add a bit of water or broth if it looks too dry!
