Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin - Easy, Tender, and Full of Flavor
Slow cooker pork tenderloin cooked until juicy and tender with rich, savory flavor. An effortless, impressive dinner perfect for any night.
Ingredients
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 2 to 2.5 pounds total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for optional sauce thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
- Season the pork: Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mix all over.
- Sear for flavor: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the tenderloins for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step builds flavor but is optional if you’re short on time.
- Make the cooking sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, minced garlic, and vinegar.
- Load the slow cooker: Place the seared tenderloins in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours or on High for 1.5–2 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
- Rest the meat: Transfer the pork to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Stir cornstarch and water together, then whisk into the sauce and simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
- Slice and serve: Cut the pork into 1/2-inch slices. Spoon sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
