This Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin is an easy, delicious dinner idea. A simple mix of spices is used to season the pork, which is then cooked with onions in the crock pot until it’s soft and juicy.
Some of my favorite recipes are crock pot ones because you can’t beat making dinner ahead of time. My family loves this crock pot pork tenderloin because it’s tender, juicy and flavorful. I love how easy it is to make! To start, season the pork and brown it on the stove to get the most flavor out of it. Then it finishes cooking in the slow cooker so that it’s ready to serve at dinner time. It only takes a few simple ingredients to make this meal, which is great for any night of the week.
Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that can be cooked quickly on the stovetop or grill But for an effortless dinner, the crock pot is a great option Cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot helps break down the proteins and connective tissue, making the meat incredibly tender and juicy without drying out.
So how long should you cook pork tenderloin in the crockpot? The answer depends on a few factors. Keep reading for tips on achieving tender, juicy pork tenderloin from your slow cooker.
Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin Cooking Time
The cooking time for pork tenderloin in a crockpot can range from 2-4 hours on the Low setting, The variables that affect the time include
-
Size of the tenderloin – Smaller cuts around 1 pound will cook faster, while larger 2 pound tenderloins will need more time.
-
Quantity cooked – The more you cook, the longer it takes for the center to reach safe temperature. For 1-2 tenderloins allow 2 1/2 – 3 hours. For 3-4 tenderloins, cook 4 hours.
-
Doneness preference – Cook until it reaches the minimum safe internal temperature of 145°F. For very tender, sliceable results, cook until 160-165°F.
-
Crock pot model – Some run hotter than others. Get to know your appliance.
-
Liquid amount – More liquid conducts heat faster, reducing time. Use 1-2 cups broth.
-
Vegetable additions – Root veggies added at the beginning will lengthen the time needed.
No matter what, use a meat thermometer to check doneness rather than relying solely on time. Pork tenderloin can overcook quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for tender, flavorful crockpot pork tenderloin:
-
Trim – Remove the thin silverskin membrane for even cooking.
-
Season – Rub the pork all over with salt, pepper, and other spices.
-
Sear – Brown the tenderloins on all sides in a skillet. This seals in juices.
-
Pour – Add 1-2 cups broth, wine, or other liquid to the slow cooker.
-
Add – Place pork in the crockpot and add any vegetables like onions.
-
Cook – Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
-
Rest – Remove pork from the slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes.
-
Slice – Cut into 1/2-inch slices. Serve with cooking liquid on the side as au jus.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
-
Trim off excess fat, but leave a thin layer for moisture.
-
Sprinkle with a salty rub or herb seasoning blend before cooking.
-
Use broth, wine, apple cider, or juice for flavorful pork.
-
Avoid opening the lid to prevent heat loss.
-
Let pork rest before slicing for easier cutting and juicier meat.
-
Add veggies like onions, carrots, and potatoes during the last hour.
-
Stir in cornstarch slurry after cooking if you want a thicker sauce.
Signs of Overcooking
It’s easy to overcook lean pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Check for these signs your pork is overdone:
-
Internal temperature exceeds 165°F
-
Meat has browned, dry edges
-
Pork has tough, rubbery texture
-
Juices run clear when poked rather than light pink
-
Meat shreds easily rather than slicing cleanly
Pull pork from the slow cooker as soon as it reaches the target temp to avoid overcooking. The residual heat will continue to raise the internal temperature as it rests.
Flavorful Pairings
Pork pairs wonderfully with sweet fruits, hearty greens, and starchy sides. Consider serving your crockpot pork tenderloin with:
-
Mashed or roasted potatoes
-
Sauteed apples or pears
-
Steamed broccoli or green beans
-
Roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips
-
Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
-
Quinoa or brown rice pilaf
-
Sauteed kale or spinach
Sauces for Pork Tenderloin
The broth left behind after cooking pork tenderloin makes a simple, flavorful sauce. For more flavor, try one of these easy sauce ideas:
-
Apple cider sauce -apple cider, broth, thyme, garlic
-
Dijon cream sauce – broth, cream, Dijon mustard
-
Maple bourbon sauce – maple syrup, bourbon, broth
-
Peach salsa – peach, onion, jalapeno, cilantro
-
Grainy mustard sauce – broth, grainy mustard, honey
-
Mushroom sauce – sliced mushrooms, broth, garlic
Simply stir sauce ingredients into the cooking liquid after removing the pork. Simmer until thickened.
Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipes
To get you started, here are a few tasty recipe ideas for cooking pork tenderloin in the slow cooker:
-
Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin – maple syrup, Dijon, thyme
-
Salsa Verde Pork – salsa verde, cilantro, lime
-
Apple Cider Pork Tenderloin – apple cider, maple syrup, apple
-
Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin – honey, soy sauce, garlic
-
BBQ Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin – BBQ sauce, brown sugar, onion
Get creative with seasonings and sauces! The mild flavor of pork tenderloin pairs well with sweet, spicy, garlicky, and herbaceous flavors.
Perfect Every Time
Cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot makes this lean cut super moist and tender. With the proper timing and temperature, you can achieve excellent results every time.
For 1-2 pound tenderloins, cook 2 1/2 – 4 hours until the pork reaches 145°F internally. Avoid overcooking by pulling pork from the slow cooker at this stage.
Pair your juicy crockpot pork tenderloin with sweet fruits, hearty greens, or starchy sides for a delicious, well-rounded meal the whole family will love.
How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot
You will love how quick and easy this recipe is to prepare!
Combine the seasonings in a small bowl.
Pat the pork tenderloin dry and trim off any silver skin. Then rub the seasonings onto all sides of the meat.
Slice the onions and cook them in a pan on the stove for about 5 minutes, until they get soft and slightly browned. This step is important for developing flavor. Then transfer the onions to the slow cooker.
Add the pork to the skillet and sear on all sides until browned. Place the pork on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low until the pork is cooked through. Then let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Do You Need to Add Liquid?
You do not need to add any liquid to the crock pot for this recipe. The pork will release moisture as it cooks. Pics show that there is some liquid left in the crock pot after the pork is done cooking. I like to serve these juices over the pork. You can also thicken them to make gravy, if desired.
How to Make Pork Tenderloin in a Slow-Cooker | Allrecipes
FAQ
Is it better to cook pork in a crock pot on high or low?
How long can pork be in the crockpot?
How do you know when pork loin is done in a crock pot?
Should pork tenderloin be cooked fast or slow?
How long do you cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot?
Cook pork tenderloin in the Crock Pot on Low for 2 1/2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F using a meat thermometer.
Can you cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker. Cook it on Low for the recommended time. Remove the tenderloins from the slow cooker and slice them. Return the sliced pork to the slow cooker with the sauce and heat on High for a few more minutes. I like to garnish with more fresh rosemary, but you could also sprinkle with fresh parsley instead. TIP: Don’t skip the last step!
How long do you cook pork in a slow cooker?
Rub the olive oil all over the pork. Season on all sides with the spice mixture. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or on HIGH for about 1 – 1 ½ hours, or until the pork reaches and internal temperature of 145°F. Slow cookers run at different temperatures, so cooking time will vary.
What temperature do you cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot?
Whether you cook your pork tenderloin fast or slow, you’ll know that the meat is perfectly done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The center will still be slightly pink at this temp (which is totally fine!), and the juices will run clear. An instant-read meat thermometer is the key for a delicious Crock Pot pork tenderloin recipe.