This Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor. The sweet glaze makes it a hit at any dinner table, and cooking it low and slow makes it super tender!
Trust me, you’ll want to smell this cooking all day. I love serving it with rice or veggies to soak up that yummy glaze. Simple, tasty, and makes me look like a kitchen pro! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of your dish! Choose fresh tenderloins for the best flavor. If you can’t find pork, turkey tenderloin can be a good substitute, but the cooking time may differ.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For convenience and flavor, these powders work well. If you prefer fresh, you can use 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small minced onion instead. Just keep an eye on moisture levels in your sauce.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely depth to the sauce. If you’re out, regular paprika or even chili powder will work, but it’ll change the flavor profile slightly.
Barbecue Sauce: Your choice of sauce can really change the taste. I love a tangy or sweet barbecue sauce for balance. If you’re looking to cut sugar, try a sugar-free version or make your own from canned tomatoes and spices.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to create a glaze. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor. For a sugar-free option, consider a sugar-free substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Tenderloin is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pork tenderloin slowly ensures juiciness. To check for doneness and tenderness, always use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Here are some simple tips:
- Season the pork well with the spice mix. This helps build flavor as it cooks.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the pork to avoid dryness. Make sure it’s well-coated.
- Let the pork rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy when you slice it.
Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious glazed pork tenderloin will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then 6-7 hours in the slow cooker on low (or 3-4 hours on high). Just set it and forget it while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork tenderloins to add flavor. Make sure to cover all sides!
2. Make the Glaze:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir it all together until well mixed. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to your pork.
3. Put Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned pork tenderloins into the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue mixture over the top, ensuring the tenderloins are well coated. This will help the pork absorb all the lovely flavors while cooking.
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should be tender and cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
5. Slice and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the tenderloins from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes. This makes slicing easier. After resting, slice the pork into pieces and serve it with the delicious sauce spooned over the top.
6. Garnish:
For the final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Enjoy your flavorful and tender glazed pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork loin or even pork shoulder, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Pork shoulder typically requires a longer cooking time due to its size and fat content, so adjust accordingly to ensure it reaches the desired tenderness.
What if I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No problem! If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make a quick marinade using equal parts ketchup and mustard with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This will give you a tangy flavor similar to barbecue sauce, or you can use your favorite homemade or store-bought sauce instead.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the sliced pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar substitute. Conversely, if you like it sweeter, you can add more honey or even some brown sugar to the barbecue sauce mixture before cooking.
