This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is a perfect blend of tenderness and flavor. The pork is slow-cooked for hours, allowing it to soak up all the delicious herbs and spices while becoming incredibly juicy. The rich herb-infused gravy adds an extra layer of depth, making each bite irresistible.
Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this slow cooker recipe is a must-try for any home cook!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening the gravy)
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions:
- Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, rosemary, and sage.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Pour over the pork.
- Add the sliced onion on top of the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- To make the gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then whisk it into the simmering liquid to thicken.
- Serve the pork tenderloin with the herb gravy drizzled over the top.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-8 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin – A Tender, Flavorful Dinner Option
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is one of the best comfort food recipes that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Cooking pork tenderloin in a slow cooker ensures it remains juicy and tender, while the combination of herbs and seasonings infuses the meat with incredible depth. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for a gathering, this dish is a reliable option that everyone will love.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Pork Tenderloin?
Using a slow cooker for pork tenderloin has several advantages:
- Tender and Juicy Meat: The low and slow cooking process prevents the pork from drying out, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once you season the pork and set it in the slow cooker, you can go about your day while the meal practically cooks itself.
- Rich and Flavorful: The slow infusion of herbs, broth, and sauces enhances the pork’s natural taste, creating a deliciously savory dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a large batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
The Secret to a Flavorful Pork Tenderloin
A well-seasoned pork tenderloin makes all the difference in this dish. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and sage creates a savory crust that complements the meat’s natural flavors. Searing the pork before slow cooking locks in moisture and enhances the caramelized taste, making every bite even more delicious.
The Role of the Herb Gravy
One of the best parts of this slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe is the rich herb gravy. Made from the slow-cooked juices, this sauce is thickened to perfection using cornstarch. The addition of Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce deepens the flavor, adding a subtle umami kick that makes the dish even more irresistible.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
This pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to complement your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans adds texture and freshness.
- Rice or Quinoa: These grains make a great base to serve with the pork and gravy.
- Garlic Bread: A crusty garlic bread slice can help you enjoy every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Best Tips for Cooking Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the pork before placing it in the slow cooker enhances its flavor and texture.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Pork is best cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness.
- Let It Rest: After removing the pork from the slow cooker, let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch; if it’s too thick, add a splash of broth to reach the desired consistency.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, storing and reheating them properly will keep the pork tender and delicious.
- Refrigeration: Store sliced pork in an airtight container with some of the gravy to keep it moist. It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: You can freeze pork tenderloin for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the pork in a skillet over low heat with a bit of gravy or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Why This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe Stands Out
This recipe is a game-changer because of its simplicity and robust flavors. Unlike traditional pork roasts that require hours of attention, this slow cooker version allows you to achieve gourmet-quality results with minimal effort. The combination of seared pork, aromatic herbs, and a rich gravy makes this dish a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that will quickly become a household favorite. Its tender texture, flavorful seasoning, and mouthwatering herb gravy make it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or simply craving a comforting homemade dinner, this recipe delivers outstanding results every time. Try it today and enjoy the simplicity of slow cooking with an incredibly satisfying payoff!