This glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin is so tender it practically falls apart! It’s coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes every bite a delight.
I love how simple it is to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. You’ll impress your friends without breaking a sweat—now that’s a win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloins: These are lean and tender cuts of meat perfect for slow cooking. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you might try pork loin or pork shoulder; just adjust cooking times as shoulder may take longer.
Beef Broth: I love using beef broth for a richer flavor. If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, chicken broth or vegetable broth works too. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the taste.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth and saltiness to your dish. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative, and coconut aminos can work well for a soy sauce replacement too.
Brown Sugar: It gives a hint of sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust quantities—the sweetness might be different!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tanginess to the glaze. If it’s not your favorite, yellow mustard or even apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute for a different flavor kick.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Tenderloin Turns Out Tender and Juicy?
Cooking pork tenderloin in a slow cooker is a fantastic way to achieve tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by seasoning your pork well with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor.
- Make your glaze by whisking together the ingredients. This step is key as it infuses the pork with flavor during cooking.
- Cook on low heat for a longer time (6-7 hours) for the most tender result. If you’re short on time, high heat for 3-4 hours works but might not be as juicy.
- To thicken your glaze, don’t skip making a cornstarch slurry—this transforms your cooking liquid into a luscious sauce.
Remember, letting the cooked pork rest before slicing helps retain the juices, leading to a more delicious meal!
How to Make Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious glazed pork tenderloin takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the work for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork:
Start by seasoning the pork tenderloins with salt and pepper all over. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor!
2. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, and onion powder. This mixture will be your glaze, and it’s packed with flavor!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned pork tenderloins in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the pork, covering it well. It smells so good already!
4. Slow Cook!
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork is ready when it’s tender and fully cooked.
5. Thicken the Glaze (Optional):
If you like a thicker glaze, remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the leftover liquid in the slow cooker and let it cook on high for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloins and serve them drizzled with the tasty glaze from the slow cooker. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful glazed pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes! While pork tenderloin works best for its tenderness, you can substitute it with pork loin or pork shoulder. Just remember that cooking times may vary; pork shoulder may take longer to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you prefer not to use beef broth, you can easily substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Both options will keep the dish flavorful and work well with the other ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make the Glaze Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust according to your heat preference!
