Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe
If you’re looking for a hassle-free and delicious meal, you’ll love this slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
With tender, juicy pork infused with a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
I also appreciate how versatile it is; you can serve it with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to making a delicious meal with minimal effort, this Maple-Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe is a winner. You get tender, juicy pork that practically falls apart with a fork, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that makes your taste buds dance.
And the best part? It’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. So, if you’re ready to impress your family or just want to treat yourself, let’s gather those ingredients!
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 – 4 tablespoons maple syrup (no substitute)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons diced dried onions
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt or 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Now, before you dash off to the kitchen, let’s chat about a few considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, the quality of your pork tenderloin can really make a difference. If you can find a nice, fresh cut, your dish will be even better!
As for the maple syrup, don’t even think about using pancake syrup—trust me, it’s not the same. Real maple syrup brings that rich sweetness that pairs so well with the savory elements.
Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to experiment with different mustards or even add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tang. Cooking should be fun, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Making this Maple-Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is as easy as pie—or maybe even easier, because there’s no pie crust involved. So, let’s get cooking! Start with 2 lbs of pork tenderloin. This cut is perfect because it’s lean yet flavorful, and when it cooks low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender. Just toss that bad boy into your trusty crock pot.
Now, if you’re like me and a little clumsy in the kitchen, don’t worry about getting it perfectly centered; just get it in there.
Next, you’ll want to whip up the glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, and 2 to 4 tablespoons of maple syrup. I mean, who doesn’t love that sweet and savory combo? The maple syrup is the star here, so go for the higher amount if you want a real sweet kick.
Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil to give it a nice richness, then toss in 2 tablespoons of diced dried onions for that extra depth. And let’s not forget the 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic salt or powder—because garlic makes everything better, right? Mix it all together until it’s well combined and looks like a beautiful, sticky glaze.
Now, pour that delicious mixture all over the pork tenderloin in the crock pot, ensuring it gets all covered and cozy. Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its magic for about 6 hours. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you might find yourself getting a little impatient, but trust the process.
The long, slow cook will transform that tenderloin, making it fork-tender and full of flavor. When it’s finally done, you can serve it up with your favorite sides, and I promise, you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar. Just don’t forget to save some of that glaze to drizzle on top—because, why not? Enjoy your culinary triumph.
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations
While the original Maple-Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up and make it your own.
For a tangy twist, try swapping the maple syrup for honey or brown sugar. If you crave a bit of heat, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
You can also experiment with different spices; smoked paprika or cumin can add a smoky flavor. For a herbaceous touch, fresh rosemary or thyme pairs beautifully with pork.
If you’re short on soy sauce, a gluten-free tamari works just as well. Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite veggies or fruits for added texture and flavor!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
After experimenting with different flavors and ingredients for the Maple-Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to create a well-rounded meal.
I love pairing this dish with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to complement the sweetness of the glaze.
Steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli add a nice crunch and color to the plate.
For something invigorating, a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pork.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider serving it with wild rice or quinoa.
Each of these sides enhances the flavors of the tenderloin and makes for a satisfying dining experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Maple-Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin turns out perfectly, I recommend a few helpful tips.
First, always use fresh ingredients; they really enhance the flavor. If you can, opt for real maple syrup—it’s a must for that authentic taste.
Before cooking, sear the pork tenderloin in olive oil for a few minutes on each side to lock in moisture and add depth. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or black pepper to the glaze.
Finally, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes after cooking; this helps it retain its juices when slicing.
Enjoy your delicious creation—you’ll be amazed at how easy and tasty it is!