How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot for Perfect Results

Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that’s perfect for the crock pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, tender pork dinner ready with minimal effort. But how long should you cook pork tenderloin in the slow cooker to get the best texture and flavor? Keep reading to find out.

Why Choose Pork Tenderloin for the Crock Pot

Pork tenderloin is usually a long, cylindrical cut that weighs around 1-2 pounds. It’s very lean and tender, with little fat or connective tissue This makes it ideal for the crock pot, where moist cooking methods prevent it from drying out.

Compared to pork shoulder or pork loin roast, tenderloin has less fat, so it can overcook if left in the slow cooker too long. But when cooked just right, it turns out incredibly moist and tender. The mild flavor takes well to all kinds of seasonings too

So if you’re looking for a healthy, easy to cook pork dinner, pork tenderloin is a fantastic option for the crock pot.

How Long Does Pork Tenderloin Take to Cook?

The exact time needed to cook pork tenderloin in the crock pot can vary slightly based on a few factors:

• Size of the tenderloin – A 1 pound tenderloin will take less time than a 2 pound one.

• Temperature setting – Pork cooks faster on High vs. Low.

• Fullness of the crock pot – A crowded cooker will slow down cooking.

• Doneness preference – Cook longer for more well done meat.

But in most cases, here are the approximate cook times:

• On Low: 4-6 hours
• On High: 2-4 hours

For the most reliable results, always rely on an instant read thermometer to check for doneness instead of cook time.

What Temperature Should Pork Tenderloin Reach?

The USDA recommends cooking pork to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F to safely destroy any bacteria that could cause foodborne illness.

At 145°F, the pork will be slightly pink in the center and juicy. For well done pork with no pink, cook to around 160°F.

Use an instant read thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the tenderloin, away from any bones or fat. Be careful not to let it touch any part of the crock pot, as that will affect the reading.

Once the minimum safe temperature is reached, the tenderloin can be removed from the slow cooker and will continue to cook from residual heat (the temperature may rise about 5-10° more). So 145°F is ideal for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot:

1. Prep the tenderloin – Trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Pat dry with paper towels. Season all over with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs.

2. Brown the tenderloin (optional) – For deeper flavor, heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over med-high heat. Brown each side for 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms.

3. Add to the crock pot – Place the browned tenderloin into the slow cooker. Pour over any sauce or cooking liquid.

4. Cook on Low – Cover and cook for 4-6 hours on Low, until it reaches 145°F internally.

5. Let rest before slicing – Once cooked, remove the tenderloin to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes which allows the juices to redistribute.

6. Slice and serve – Slice the rested pork crosswise into medallions. Pour over any pan juices to serve.

And that’s all there is to it! By following these simple steps and using a meat thermometer, you’ll get perfect, juicy pork tenderloin every time from your crock pot.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin

Here are some extra tips to take your slow cooker pork tenderloin to the next level:

• Choose the right size – Look for a 1-2 lb tenderloin so it fits nicely in the crock pot. Much larger and it may not cook evenly.

• Use a flavorful cooking liquid – Chicken or beef broth, apple cider, wine, or barbecue sauce all add great flavor.

• Brown first for added flavor – Take the extra step to brown the tenderloin before slow cooking.

• Shred and serve with sauce – For pulled pork, shred with two forks after cooking then mix with your favorite barbecue sauce.

• Turn halfway – For very large tenderloins, flip them over midway through cooking to ensure even doneness.

• Let rest before slicing – Waiting 5-10 minutes lets juices redistribute for more moist, tender meat.

• Reheat gently – Cooked pork can dry out, so reheat leftovers with a bit of broth or sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I keep cooked pork tenderloin?

Cooked pork tenderloin will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion into freezer bags and freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat gently with broth or sauce to prevent drying out.

Can I cook frozen pork tenderloin in a crock pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen pork tenderloin in the slow cooker! Just add 1-2 hours to the cook time. And use a cooking liquid like broth to allow it to thaw gradually as it cooks.

Is pork tenderloin better cooked in the oven?

The oven and crock pot are both great cooking methods. Oven roasting at 350°F takes only 30-45 minutes. The crock pot takes longer but requires no monitoring. Both yield tender, juicy results.

Why did my pork come out dry?

Overcooking is the most common reason for dry pork. Always rely on a meat thermometer, not just cook time. And be sure to let the cooked pork rest before slicing into it. Adding a sauce or gravy can also help improve moisture.

Can I stuff a pork tenderloin before cooking it?

Yes, stuffed tenderloin works great! Slice the tenderloin lengthwise but not all the way through. Fill with your favorite stuffing, then tie back together with kitchen string before slow cooking.

Satisfying Pork Tenderloin Crock Pot Recipes

Here are some top-rated recipes using pork tenderloin in the slow cooker:

• Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin – Shredded pork smothered in a homemade BBQ sauce.

• Maple Dijon Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin – Delicious maple and dijon sauce flavors the pork.

• Crock Pot Pork Carnitas – Classic Mexican pulled pork tacos.

• Cranberry Crock Pot Pork Loin – Festive and delicious with cranberry sauce.

• Salsa Verde Crock Pot Pork – Tomatillo salsa gives incredible southwestern flavors.

Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Every Time

Cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot takes just a few simple steps, and results in fork-tender meat in a flavorful sauce or gravy. With the knowledge of about how long to cook it and the proper internal temperature, you’ll get amazing results each time.

Be sure to use a thermometer for the most precise doneness. Low for 4-6 hours or High for 2-4 hours are good general guidelines. But temperatures don’t lie! For the juiciest, most tender pork tenderloin, cook to 145°F before slicing and serving.