How to Cook Half Pork Loin in a Crock Pot for Perfectly Tender and Juicy Results

Cooking half pork loin in a crock pot is one of my favorite ways to prepare this lean and tasty cut of meat. With the right technique, you’ll end up with pork that is melt-in-your-mouth tender and incredibly moist and flavorful.

As someone who loves cooking for my family, I’ve made my fair share of crockpot pork loin over the years. Through trial and error I’ve learned how to get the best results every time. In this article, I’ll share my secrets for making the most delicious and foolproof crockpot half pork loin.

Why Cook Half Pork Loin in a Slow Cooker?

There are a few reasons why using a crockpot is ideal for pork loin

• The moist, low heat environment allows the meat to cook slowly and become incredibly tender. This transforms even the leanest cuts into succulent pork perfection.

• It’s hands-off cooking. Just throw everything in the crockpot in the morning and you’ll come home to a complete meal at dinnertime.

• Infuses the pork with lots of flavor. As it simmers for hours in the sauce or broth, the meat soaks up all that delicious flavor.

• Keeps the pork juicy and prevents it from drying out. With slow cooking, there’s no risk of overcooking.

• Makes smaller cuts like half loin easy to cook. A whole loin roast can be difficult to fit in a crockpot, but a half loin is just right.

So if you want tender, juicy pork with mouthwatering flavor, the crockpot is definitely the way to go. Now let me walk you through the easy steps.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size Crockpot

When cooking half a pork loin in the slow cooker, it’s important to use one that is the right size:

• For a 2 to 3 pound half pork loin, a 4 to 5 quart crockpot is ideal. This allows enough room for the meat to cook evenly.

• If cooking a larger 3 to 4 pound half loin, go with a 6 quart size cooker or larger.

• Make sure the crockpot insert is at least 2 inches wider and longer than the meat to allow for proper air circulation.

• Avoid cramming the pork loin in a crockpot that is too small, as it won’t cook properly.

So keep these tips in mind when selecting which slow cooker to use. The right size makes a big difference in getting perfect results.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

Before cooking the pork, there are a couple of things you need to do to get it prepped:

• Trim off excess fat. Pork loin is a lean cut, but you’ll still want to trim any thick areas of fat to prevent greasiness. Leave about 1/4 inch of fat intact to keep it moist.

• Pat dry. Make sure the surface of the pork is dry before seasoning. This helps the spices and herbs adhere better.

• Season all over. For flavorful pork loin, I like to coat it with a spice rub. Some good options are brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Massage the seasoning all over.

• Sear it. Optional, but highly recommended! Searing the pork first caramelizes the exterior and adds a ton of flavor. Just sear for 1-2 minutes per side in a hot skillet with oil.

With these simple steps, your pork loin will be prepped and ready for the crockpot.

Step 2: Add Your Liquid

The liquid provides moisture and flavor as the pork loin cooks. Here are some excellent options:

• Chicken or vegetable broth – Use about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of broth, enough to coat the bottom without submerging the meat.

• BBQ sauce + broth – For a sticky, saucy pork loin, try 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce plus chicken broth.

• Apple cider or juice – For sweet flavor, apple cider adds delicious fruity notes. Use 100% juice, not from concentrate.

• Beer or wine – For depth of flavor, use a full-bodied beer or wine like amber ale or Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Water – If you want the simplest cooking liquid, water works too. Use about 1 cup.

The cooking liquid keeps the pork moist while infusing it with flavor. Feel free to get creative with your own signature combos!

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

There are lots of ways to add extra flavor to your crockpot pork loin:

• Onions and garlic – Sautéed onions and garlic add a flavor base. Use 1 onion diced and 2 cloves minced garlic.

• Herbs and spices – Rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano are all fantastic. Add about 1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried herbs.

• Chili peppers – For heat, add sliced jalapeños, serranos or your favorite hot pepper.

• Fruits and veggies – Diced apples, pineapple, potatoes or bell peppers increase the flavor profile.

• Balsamic or apple cider vinegar – A splash of vinegar brightens up the taste. Use 1 to 2 tbsp.

Mix and match different flavor combos until you find favorites for your family. The options are endless!

Step 4: Cook on Low for 7-8 Hours

Once your pork loin is prepped and nestled into the flavorful liquid, you’re ready to start cooking.

• Cook on the LOW setting for best results. High heat can cause the pork to dry out.

• Cook for 7-8 hours for a 2-3 pound half loin. Larger loins may need up to 10 hours.

• Do not open the lid or peek while cooking. This releases heat and moisture.

• When done, the pork should be fall-apart tender when pierced with a fork.

Low and slow is the way to go. Just let the crockpot work its magic!

Step 5: Let It Rest before Serving

Once your pork loin has finished cooking, there is one last crucial step – letting it rest:

• Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil.

• Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

• This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb back into the meat.

Skipping this step can cause the pork to dry out, so be sure to let it rest properly. The result is juicy, luscious pork that is ready to devour.

Step 6: Make an Easy Sauce from the Cooking Liquid

Don’t throw out that delicious cooking liquid in the crockpot! Instead, put it to use by making a simple sauce:

• Pour the liquid into a saucepan and skim off any excess fat.

• Whisk in flour to thicken it up – about 1 to 2 tbsp should do.

• Add cream or milk for extra richness and body – 1/4 to 1/2 cup.

• Season with salt, pepper and herbs. Taste and adjust until you love the flavor.

• Heat through until thickened.

You’ll end up with a perfect gravy-like sauce for serving over your succulent pork loin. It takes just minutes to put together.

More Tips for Crockpot Pork Loin Perfection

Here are a few more of my best tips:

• For extra tenderness and moisture, brine the pork loin overnight before cooking.

• Add butter on top of the pork loin as it cooks for added richness.

• If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with water and stir in at the end to thicken.

• Shred any leftovers for pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, salads and more.

• Freeze individual portions in freezer bags for quick future meals.

Now you’re armed with my best tips and step-by-step instructions for making utterly perfect crockpot half pork loin. I promise you’ll end up with fork-tender pork and delicious homemade gravy every time you give this recipe a try. This hassle-free cooking method makes dinner a breeze any night of the week.