This glazed slow cooker pork tenderloin is super tender and bursting with flavor. It’s cooked low and slow until it practically falls apart, all while soaking up a tasty glaze!
I love how simple it is! Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut is perfect for slow cooking. If needed, you can substitute it with pork loin, though it may take longer to cook. Chicken breast could work too, but the flavor will be different!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is great for keeping the dish balanced without being overly salty. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos!
Brown Sugar: For sweetness, brown sugar adds depth. If you’re out, you can use regular sugar or even honey, but adjust to taste as honey is sweeter.
Ketchup: It brings a nice tang to the glaze. If you’re avoiding ketchup, you might substitute with tomato paste, but add a little extra sweetness to mimic the flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If fresh isn’t available, using garlic powder is a quick substitute; just use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Get That Sauce Just Right?
Getting your sauce to the perfect texture can elevate the dish, so let’s make it easy! If you choose to thicken it, here’s how:
- After cooking, use about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Add this mixture into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker, and stir well.
- Switch the slow cooker to high and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
The result? A delicious glaze that clings perfectly to your pork. Don’t worry if you skip the thickener; the sauce will still be tasty!
How to Make Glazed Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Optional Thickening:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, it’s perfect for a busy day when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glaze:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a nice glaze—this is what will flavor your pork beautifully!
2. Coat the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and place it in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze over the pork, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. This will give the meat an amazing flavor as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook the Pork:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Now, you have two options: cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork is done when it’s tender and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Just relax and let the magic happen!
4. Let It Rest and Slice:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside when you slice it.
5. Optional: Thicken the Sauce:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until it thickens up.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Slice the pork tenderloin and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Drizzle the glaze from the slow cooker over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a lovely color and a bit of freshness!
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve hot and enjoy this tasty glazed pork tenderloin with your favorite sides. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or beef tenderloin instead of pork. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken may cook faster, and beef might need a bit longer. Always ensure your meat reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safety!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the low-sodium soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. Always check the labels to ensure the other ingredients, like ketchup, are also gluten-free.
Can I Prepare the Glaze in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead! Just mix all the ingredients together and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day you plan to cook, and the flavors might even enhance overnight.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For best quality, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
