If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that is easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, look no further than crockpot pork tenderloin. This recipe is a life-saver for home cooks who want a delicious meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the pork with rich, savory flavors while keeping it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a small gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this crockpot pork tenderloin will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know — from selecting the best pork tenderloin to step-by-step cooking instructions, flavor variations, and tips for making it a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Pork Tenderloin
- Hands-off cooking: Just set it and forget it — the crockpot does all the work.
- Juicy and tender: Slow cooking ensures the pork stays moist and flavorful.
- Family-friendly: Mild and versatile flavors make this a dish everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable: Works with a variety of sauces, spices, and vegetables.
- Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully for sandwiches, tacos, or grain bowls.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic crockpot pork tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1–1.5 lbs each)
- 1 cup chicken broth or beef broth
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (for a savory umami base)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)
Pro Tip: Pork tenderloin is different from pork loin — tenderloin is smaller, leaner, and cooks faster. Always double-check the label at the grocery store.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Trim any excess silver skin from the pork tenderloins using a sharp knife. This helps keep the meat tender and prevents chewy bites. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, onion, and Dijon mustard. This mixture will create a flavorful braising liquid for the pork.
3. Arrange in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned pork tenderloins in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, making sure the pork is well-coated.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Low setting: Cook for 6–8 hours for maximum tenderness.
- High setting: Cook for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer — it should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
5. Thicken the Sauce
Remove the pork tenderloin and set aside to rest. Pour the remaining cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and whisk in a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) until the sauce thickens.
6. Slice and Serve
Slice the tenderloin into medallions and drizzle the thickened sauce over the top. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete, comforting meal.
Flavor Variations
One of the best things about crockpot pork tenderloin is its versatility. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
- BBQ Style: Replace soy sauce and balsamic vinegar with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Italian Style: Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a splash of red wine for a rustic Italian version.
- Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a bit of ginger for an Asian twist.
- Apple & Herb: Add sliced apples, rosemary, and a bit of apple juice for a fall-inspired meal.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crockpot Pork Tenderloin
Pair your pork tenderloin with sides that complement its flavor and make it a complete dinner:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roast beautifully.
- Steamed Green Beans – A light, fresh side that balances the richness of the pork.
- Rice or Quinoa – Great for a healthy grain option.
- Crisp Salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette brightens up the meal.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Leftovers of this crockpot pork tenderloin are just as delicious the next day:
- Refrigerate: Store sliced pork and sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags with sauce and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
You can also repurpose the leftovers into:
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Pork tacos or quesadillas
- Grain bowls with rice, veggies, and sauce
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Pork Tenderloin
- Don’t overcook: Pork tenderloin is lean and can dry out if cooked too long. Use a thermometer to check doneness.
- Sear first (optional): Browning the pork in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot boosts flavor.
- Layer onions under the pork: This prevents sticking and infuses more flavor.
- Double the sauce: If you love lots of gravy, double the sauce ingredients — you won’t regret it!
Common Questions About Crockpot Pork Tenderloin
Can I use pork loin instead?
Yes, but pork loin is thicker and may need more cooking time — 8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high.
Should I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Absolutely! Add baby potatoes, carrots, or mushrooms for a complete one-pot meal.
Do I need to marinate the pork first?
No, the slow cooking process infuses plenty of flavor. But if you want an extra boost, marinate the pork overnight in the sauce mixture.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot pork tenderloin is one of those recipes that proves you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make an impressive, flavorful meal. With just a few ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a tender, juicy, and comforting dinner that the whole family will love.
Try this recipe once, and it may become part of your regular dinner rotation — especially on those busy nights when you still want something home-cooked and delicious.