This glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin is super tender and juicy, cooked to perfection with a sweet and sticky glaze. The smell in your kitchen will make everyone hungry!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to just toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it. Plus, leftovers make great sandwiches! You can’t go wrong with this dish. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, making it perfect for slow cooking. If needed, you can substitute it with pork loin or shoulder, but be aware that they might take longer to cook and could have different textures.
Chicken Broth: I recommend using low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch; just add more seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re cutting back on sodium, try low-sodium soy sauce; it works just as well in the recipe!
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works here, but you can use honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Just remember, it may alter the flavor slightly.
Honey: If you prefer not to use honey, agave syrup is a nice alternative. It keeps the sweetness while being a tad lighter in flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Pork is Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Getting your pork tenderloin juicy and perfectly cooked is easier than you think. Follow these steps to success:
- Start by searing the pork! Though it’s optional, browning it in a skillet adds a great depth of flavor.
- Ensure it’s well-seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking. This simple step makes a big difference.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for juicy pork. Allow it to rest before slicing to retain moisture.
- If you want a thicker sauce, whisk cornstarch with a little water for easy thickening. Just add it towards the end of cooking.
How to Make Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped green onions or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Make sure to set aside time for the pork to become nice and tender. You’ll love the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by seasoning the pork tenderloins with a sprinkle of salt and pepper on all sides. This will help enhance the flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork:
If you’d like some extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork tenderloins and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful depth of flavor!
3. Combine Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and ground ginger until everything is well mixed. This will be the tasty glaze for your pork!
4. Add Pork to Slow Cooker:
Place the seared pork tenderloins into the slow cooker, making sure they are fully submerged in the delicious sauce. This will help them absorb all the wonderful flavors.
5. Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Your pork is ready when it’s tender and has an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Optional Thicken Sauce:
If you like a thicker sauce, remove the pork from the slow cooker and mix the cornstarch with a little water until it’s smooth. Whisk it into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully slice it into medallions and serve it with the sauce drizzled over. Feel free to garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh pop of color! Enjoy your delicious glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can substitute with chicken breasts or thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since chicken usually cooks faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, try tamari sauce. For a low-sodium option, you can use coconut aminos, which has a similar taste but is less salty. You can also try liquid aminos for a lighter flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the pork and sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Pork?
Yes, you can skip the searing step if you’re short on time. The pork will still turn out flavorful, although searing does enhance the depth of flavor. Just make sure the pork is well-seasoned before adding it to the slow cooker.
