Slow Cooker Pork Loin: Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6 (based on average portion size)
Recipe Category: Pork
Cuisine Type: Comfort Food
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Keywords: Meat, Very Low Carbs, Beginner Cook, Easy
Description:
This Slow Cooker Pork Loin is a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings when you need to get dinner on the table with minimal effort. Just pop the pork loin into the slow cooker, pour over the easy-to-make sauce, and let it cook while you go about your day. The result is a tender, juicy pork loin that’s packed with flavor and goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, and soft dinner rolls.
Whether you’re looking for a stress-free meal after a long day or a hearty dinner for the family, this recipe fits the bill. With just a few basic ingredients, this dish delivers delicious results every time. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a low-carb meal that’s big on taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork loin | 2-3 pounds |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil (or vegetable oil) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 414.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 17.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 5.4 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 149.7 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1428 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 10.5 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.5 g |
| Sugar Content | 3.1 g |
| Protein Content | 51.7 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by placing the pork loin directly into the base of your slow cooker. This cut of meat is naturally tender and will break down beautifully as it cooks, so don’t worry about it being overcooked!
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Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), and olive oil. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a simple yet flavorful sauce that will infuse the pork with taste as it cooks.
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Pour the Sauce Over the Pork: Once your sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the pork loin in the slow cooker. Make sure the sauce covers the meat as much as possible. You can even rub some of the sauce into the pork to ensure full flavor penetration.
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Set the Slow Cooker: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and cook the pork loin on high for about 4 to 5 hours. If you prefer, you can set it to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours for a more slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth result. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your pork loin and the settings of your slow cooker, so it’s a good idea to check the internal temperature towards the end of the cooking time. The pork should reach 145°F for safe consumption, followed by a 3-minute rest.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meat remains juicy. Serve the pork slices with mashed potatoes, your favorite salad, and some soft rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
Expert Tips:
- Optional Veggies: Feel free to add sliced carrots, potatoes, or other root vegetables to the slow cooker for a complete meal in one pot. Simply chop and place them around the pork before cooking.
- Flavor Variations: For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, or a teaspoon of mustard to the sauce mixture.
- Low-Carb Option: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, especially when paired with mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes or served alongside a leafy green salad.
Reviews:
- “A fantastic and easy recipe! The pork was so tender, and the sauce gave it a great flavor. My family loved it, and I’ll definitely make it again!”
- “Simple to prepare in the morning and have a delicious dinner ready when I come home. The pork was juicy and flavorful, and the mashed potatoes were the perfect side.”
- “The pork cooked beautifully, but I would like a little more sauce next time. Great for a beginner cook like me!”
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork shoulder or tenderloin if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size and thickness of the meat. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if you have a larger slow cooker, you can double the ingredients, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the pork is thoroughly cooked. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The slow-cooked pork loin can be made ahead of time, and it actually tastes even better the next day. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. -
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pork for up to 3 months.
SEO Notes:
This easy slow-cooked pork loin is a beginner-friendly recipe that fits well into low-carb and high-protein diets. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s an excellent choice for families who want a simple yet delicious meal. If you’re looking for more pork recipes or slow cooker dinner ideas, be sure to check out our other entries on Love With Recipes for even more meal inspiration.
