How to Cook Marinated Pork Tenderloin in Slow Cooker? – Easy and Delicious

Marinated Pork Tenderloin is a culinary delight that’s both tender and flavorful.

Cooking it in a slow cooker takes this dish to the next level, infusing the meat with rich, savory flavors while keeping it incredibly moist.

With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks looking to impress their family and friends.

How to Cook Marinated Pork Tenderloin in Slow Cooker? A Quick Overview

• Prepare the marinade: Mix together your favorite seasonings, acids (like vinegar or lemon juice), and oils to create a flavorful marinade.
• Marinate the pork tenderloin: Place the pork tenderloin in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish, pour in the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Sear the pork tenderloin (optional): Quickly sear the marinated pork tenderloin in a hot skillet to create a flavorful crust.
• Add to slow cooker: Place the marinated pork tenderloin in the slow cooker, along with some aromatics like onions and garlic.
• Cook on low: Cook the pork tenderloin on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
• Check the temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
• Let it rest: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prepare the Marinade – A Blend of Flavors for Tender Pork

Basic Marinade Recipe

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce for added depth of flavor

Customize Your Marinade

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or orange juice for a bright, citrusy flavor
• Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or oregano for added freshness
• Add a spoonful of honey or brown sugar to balance out the acidity
• Use different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar, for a unique flavor profile

Tips for Marinating

• Always marinate in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth
• Use a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish to marinate, making sure the pork tenderloin is coated evenly
• Don’t over-marinate, as this can make the meat mushy and unappetizing
• Always pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture

Selecting the Perfect Pork Tenderloin for Slow Cooking

Look for a Fresh, Lean Cut

• Opt for a fresh, pink-colored pork tenderloin with a smooth, even texture
• Avoid pork tenderloins with visible fat or connective tissue, as these can make the meat tough and chewy

Choose the Right Size

• For slow cooking, a smaller pork tenderloin (about 1-1.5 pounds) is ideal, as it will cook more evenly and quickly
• If you prefer a larger pork tenderloin, look for one that’s about 2-2.5 pounds, but be prepared for a longer cooking time

Consider the Breed and Origin

• Look for pork tenderloins from heritage breeds, such as Berkshire or Tamworth, which are known for their rich flavor and tender meat
• Consider pork tenderloins from local, pasture-raised pigs, which may have a more complex flavor profile and better texture

Check the Label

• Opt for pork tenderloins labeled as “lean” or “extra lean,” as these will have less fat and more protein
• Consider pork tenderloins with labels like “hormone-free” or “antibiotic-free” if you’re concerned about the animal’s welfare and the environment

Avoid Enhanced or Injected Pork

• Some pork tenderloins may be enhanced with added solutions or injected with flavorings, which can affect the meat’s natural flavor and texture
• Opt for pork tenderloins that are labeled as “uncured” or “unenhanced” for a more natural flavor and texture

Preparing Your Crock Pot for a Delicious Meal

Cleanliness is Key

• Make sure your crock pot is clean and free of any residual food particles or stains
• Wash the crock pot with soap and warm water, and dry it thoroughly before use

Choose the Right Setting

• Decide on the cooking time and temperature based on your recipe and the type of meat you’re using
• Choose the low or high setting depending on your schedule and the level of doneness you prefer

Add Aromatics and Flavorings

• Chop onions, garlic, and other aromatics and add them to the crock pot for added flavor
• Add your favorite spices, herbs, and seasonings to the crock pot to give your meal an extra boost of flavor

Add the Pork Tenderloin

• Place the marinated pork tenderloin in the crock pot, making sure it’s covered with the marinade
• Add any additional ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers, to the crock pot

Set It and Forget It!

• Cover the crock pot and turn it on to the desired setting
• Let the crock pot do the work while you go about your day, knowing that a delicious meal is waiting for you when you get home

How Long to Marinate Pork Tenderloin for Optimal Flavor

Minimum Marinating Time: 30 Minutes

• Even a short marinating time of 30 minutes can make a significant difference in flavor and tenderness
• This is a great option if you’re short on time or want a quick and easy meal

Optimal Marinating Time: 2-4 Hours

• Marinating for 2-4 hours allows the acid in the marinade to break down the proteins and tenderize the meat
• This is a great option if you want a more flavorful and tender pork tenderloin without having to wait too long

Maximum Marinating Time: 8-24 Hours

• Marinating for 8-24 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful
• This is a great option if you want the most flavorful and tender pork tenderloin possible

Important Notes:

• Always marinate in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth
• Make sure to turn the pork tenderloin occasionally to ensure even marinating
• Don’t over-marinate, as this can make the meat mushy and unappetizing

Recommended Slow Cooker Settings for Pork Tenderloin

Low and Slow: 8-10 Hours

• Cooking on low for 8-10 hours is ideal for pork tenderloin, as it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly
• This setting is perfect for a busy day, as you can simply add the pork tenderloin to the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a delicious meal

Medium Heat: 4-6 Hours

• If you’re short on time, cooking on medium heat for 4-6 hours is a great option
• This setting is ideal for a quicker meal, but still allows for tender and flavorful results

High Heat: 2-3 Hours

• Cooking on high heat for 2-3 hours is perfect for a quick and easy meal
• This setting is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a busy weekend

Important Notes:

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork tenderloin reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
• Make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the size and thickness of your pork tenderloin
• Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can affect the cooking time and result in uneven cooking

How to Ensure Your Pork Tenderloin Stays Moist

Use a Marinade

• Marinating the pork tenderloin in a mixture of acid (such as vinegar or lemon juice) and oil helps to break down the proteins and keep the meat moist
• Acidic ingredients like citrus or vinegar help to break down the collagen in the meat, making it more tender and juicy

Don’t Overcook

• Overcooking is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to a dry and tough pork tenderloin
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork tenderloin reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), but avoid overcooking it

Use a Low and Slow Cooking Method

• Cooking the pork tenderloin low and slow helps to break down the connective tissues and keep the meat moist
• This method allows the meat to cook evenly and prevents it from drying out

Add Aromatics and Flavorings

• Adding aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker helps to add moisture and flavor to the pork tenderloin
• You can also add flavorings like stock, wine, or cream to keep the meat moist and add extra flavor

Don’t Press Down on the Meat

• Resist the temptation to press down on the pork tenderloin with your spatula, as this can squeeze out the juices and make the meat dry
• Instead, let the meat cook undisturbed and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature

Onions, Garlic, and Herbs to Elevate Your Dish

Caramelize Onions for Depth of Flavor

• Caramelizing onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to your dish
• Simply slice the onions thinly and cook them in a pan with some oil over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally

Mince Garlic for Added Flavor

• Mincing garlic releases its oils and flavor compounds, which can add a pungent flavor to your dish
• Use about 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced, and sauté them in a pan with some oil until fragrant

Choose Fresh Herbs for Brightness and Flavor

• Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley add a bright, fresh flavor to your dish
• Choose herbs that complement the flavor of your pork tenderloin, and chop them finely before adding them to your dish

Combine Onions, Garlic, and Herbs for a Flavorful Sauce

• Combine caramelized onions, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs in a saucepan with some oil or butter
• Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant and the flavors have melded together

Creative Ways to Serve Your Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

1. Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches

• Slice the pork tenderloin thinly and serve on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce.

2. Pork Tacos

• Shred the pork tenderloin and serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream.

3. Pork Quesadillas

• Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it in quesadillas with cheese, salsa, and sour cream.

4. Pork and Vegetable Kabobs

• Skewer the pork tenderloin with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and serve with a side of quinoa or rice.

5. Pork and Mashed Potato Shepherd’s Pie

• Slice the pork tenderloin and layer it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy in a casserole dish.

6. Pork and Egg Breakfast Burritos

• Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it in breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa.

7. Pork and Vegetable Stir-Fry

• Slice the pork tenderloin and stir-fry it with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, and serve over rice.

8. Pork Tostadas

• Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it on tostadas with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream.

9. Pork and Cheese Frittata

• Slice the pork tenderloin and add it to a frittata with cheese, vegetables, and herbs.

10. Pork and Vegetable Soup

• Slice the pork tenderloin and add it to a soup with your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker?

A: The cooking time will depend on the size of the pork tenderloin and the heat setting of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Q: Can I cook a frozen pork tenderloin in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can cook a frozen pork tenderloin in a slow cooker. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time.

Q: Do I need to brown the pork tenderloin before cooking it in a slow cooker?

A: No, you don’t need to brown the pork tenderloin before cooking it in a slow cooker. However, browning it can add flavor and texture to the dish.

Q: Can I cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker with vegetables?

A: Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker with vegetables. Just add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, to the slow cooker with the pork tenderloin.

Q: How do I know when the pork tenderloin is cooked?

A: The pork tenderloin is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Q: Can I cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker on high heat?

A: Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker on high heat. However, cooking on low heat can result in a more tender and juicy pork tenderloin.

Q: Can I cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker with BBQ sauce?

A: Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker with BBQ sauce. Just add the BBQ sauce to the slow cooker with the pork tenderloin and cook on low for 6-8 hours.