crockpot pork loin recipe
The Best crockpot pork loin recipe
My family loves it because it’s so versatile. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even over rice, and it holds up perfectly. I’ve used it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even when I just wanted a hearty meal without the fuss of grilling or baking. The crockpot does all the work, so I don’t have to stress about timing or temperature. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra garlic, onions, or herbs I have on hand—it’s like a flavor boost without extra effort. And honestly, there’s nothing like the smell wafting through the house when it’s cooking, making the whole kitchen feel cozy. The health benefits are nice too—I cut back on heavy sauces and just use a little olive oil and fresh herbs, so it’s still packed with protein and lean meat without being too heavy. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating something wholesome, and I don’t have to force-feed them anything. It’s just good, simple food that everyone enjoys.
Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apple-Cider Glaze
Tender, juicy pork loin slow-cooked with a sweet and tangy apple-cider glaze for a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (6–8 lb) bone-in pork loin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) if using a slow cooker with a removable rack. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. -
2
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork loin. -
3
Place the pork loin in the slow cooker, skin-side up. Pour the glaze ingredients into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. -
4
Reduce heat to low, simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3 minutes until softened. -
5
Pour the glaze mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. -
6
Remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding. Discard the skin if desired. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the glaze. Cook on high for 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze.
- If using a bone-in pork loin, remove the bone before shredding for easier handling.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to the glaze.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Substitute apple cider with pear cider for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze for a smoky twist.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apple-Cider Glaze Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apple-Cider Glaze
1. What is the best way to prepare a crockpot pork loin for slow cooking?
The best way to prepare a crockpot pork loin is to first trim off any excess fat and make a few shallow cuts across the surface to help the seasonings penetrate. Season the pork loin generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other desired spices. Place it in the crockpot, then add your preferred liquid (such as chicken broth, apple cider, or beef broth) and any vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on the size of the pork loin.
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2. Can I use bone-in or boneless pork loin?
Yes, you can use either bone-in or boneless pork loin for this crockpot recipe. Bone-in pork loins tend to have more flavor and can be more flavorful due to the bone’s natural juices, but they also require slightly more time to cook thoroughly. Boneless pork loins cook faster and are often preferred for convenience. Both work well in the crockpot, but adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed.
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3. What are some great seasoning combinations for crockpot pork loin?
There are many delicious seasoning combinations you can use for crockpot pork loin. Here are a few popular ones:
– Classic BBQ: Brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
– Honey Garlic: Honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of red pepper flakes.
– Herb-Roasted: Rosemary, thyme, sage, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
– BBQ Glaze: BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Spicy Cajun: Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a splash of hot sauce.
You can also experiment with different herbs, spices, and liquids to suit your taste.
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4. How do I know if the pork loin is cooked properly in the USDA guidelines?
According to the USDA guidelines, pork loin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. Once the pork reaches the safe temperature, it is ready to be served. Resting the meat for a few minutes after removing it from the crockpot can help it retain its juices.
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5. Can I make this crockpot pork loin ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the crockpot pork loin ahead of time and reheat it safely. Store the cooked pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and warm it through, adding a splash of liquid (like broth or water) to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the crockpot on low for 1-2 hours. For best results, consider reheating with some additional seasoning or sauce to enhance the flavor.
