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Crockpot Pork Tenderloin

Crockpot Pork Tenderloin

A simple and delicious dish featuring tender pork tenderloin slow-cooked with vegetables and seasonings. Perfect for busy families, this recipe allows you to "set it and forget it," resulting in a flavorful, juicy meal with minimal effort.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Crockpot (slow cooker) A medium-sized crockpot works best for this recipe.
  • 1 Sharp Knife For trimming and slicing pork.
  • 1 Cutting Board For prepping vegetables and meat.
  • 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of seasonings and liquids.
  • 1 Butcher’s twine (optional) To tie the pork for even cooking.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Pork tenderloin Trimmed of excess fat and silver skin.
  • 1 cup Chicken broth For moisture and flavor.
  • 1 Onion (medium, sliced) medium, sliced Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cups Carrots (chopped) Baby carrots work well too.
  • 2 cups Potatoes (cubed) Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder (Optional) for extra savory notes.
  • 1 tsp Thyme (dried) Earthy aroma complements pork beautifully.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For marinating or searing (optional).
  • 1 tbsp Soy sauce Adds umami and balances flavors.
  • (Optional) Parmesan cheese (grated) For garnish.
  • (Optional) Fresh parsley or thyme For garnish and added freshness.

Instructions
 

Prepare Ingredients :

  • Trim the pork tenderloin of excess fat and silver skin. Pat dry with paper towels.
  • Chop onions, carrots, and potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. Mince garlic.

Season the Pork :

  • Rub the pork tenderloin with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Ensure all sides are evenly coated.
  • Optionally, marinate the pork in olive oil, minced garlic, and soy sauce for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Layer Vegetables in Crockpot :

  • Place sliced onions, chopped carrots, and cubed potatoes evenly at the bottom of the crockpot.

Add Pork and Liquids :

  • Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the vegetables. Pour chicken broth around the edges to prevent drying out.

Cook :

  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours , depending on your schedule.

Rest and Slice :

  • Once cooked, remove the pork and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice into ½-inch thick pieces.

Garnish and Serve :

  • Arrange sliced pork on a platter with vegetables. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Notes

    • Customization : Add other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for variety.
    • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.
    • Freezing : Freeze cooked pork and vegetables separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?
    • Yes! Pork loin is larger and may require longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly.
     
  2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
    • Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure soy sauce is tamari-based.
     
  3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the pork.
     
  4. Can I freeze this dish?
    • Yes! Freeze cooked pork and vegetables separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
     
  5. How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
    • Avoid overcooking by checking tenderness after 6 hours on low. Resting the meat after cooking also helps retain juices.
 

Tips & Tricks

  • Flavor Enhancement : Tie the pork with butcher’s twine to maintain its shape and lock in juices during cooking.
  • Presentation : Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan for an elegant touch.
  • Versatility : Leftovers can be shredded and used in sandwiches, salads, or tacos for quick meals.
 

Presentation Tips

  • Garnish : Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or thyme for color and freshness.
  • Serving Style : Serve on a platter with vegetables arranged around the sliced pork for a visually appealing presentation. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Beverage Pairings : Offer a light white wine like Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon for non-alcoholic options.
Keyword Comfort Food, Crockpot Pork Tenderloin, Easy Dinner, Slow Cooker