Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our incredible slow cooker honey garlic pork tenderloin!
Did you know that pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of meat available? It’s true! And when you combine it with the sweet and savory flavors of honey and garlic in a slow cooker, magic happens.
I’m thrilled to share this recipe that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing and have your family begging for seconds.
Let’s dive in and create a meal that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
- Effortless preparation – just set it and forget it!
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Tender, juicy meat that falls apart with your fork
- Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Once done, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the thickened sauce drizzled over top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Flavor Variations and Customization Options
- Spicy honey garlic pork tenderloin: Double the red pepper flakes or add a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce.
- Asian-inspired flavors: Add 1 tablespoon of grated ginger and replace half the honey with hoisin sauce.
- Herb-infused variations: Add 1 teaspoon each of fresh rosemary and sage to the sauce.
- Fruit additions: Place sliced apples or pineapple chunks in the slow cooker with the pork for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Ideas
- Classic pairings: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts.
- Healthy side options: Pair with quinoa salad or steamed broccoli for a lighter meal.
- Creative serving ideas: Shred the pork and use it in sliders, tacos, or rice bowls for a fun twist.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Meal prep: Portion out the sliced pork with sauce and your choice of sides for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
- Calorie count: Approximately 300 calories per serving
- Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamin B6, and minerals like phosphorus and niacin.
- The lean protein in this dish helps build and repair tissues, supports immune function, and promotes satiety.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Preventing dry pork: Ensure you don’t overcook the tenderloin. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjusting sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add more cornstarch slurry. If too thick, thin with a bit of water or broth.
- Fixing flavor imbalances: Taste the sauce before serving. Add more honey for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or vinegar for acidity as needed.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, you can use pork loin, but it may require a slightly longer cooking time due to its larger size.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the pressure cook setting for about 20 minutes, followed by a natural release.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this in the oven. Sear the pork in a skillet, then transfer to a baking dish with the sauce. Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! Our mouthwatering slow cooker honey garlic pork tenderloin recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
With its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, tender texture, and effortless preparation, it’s a winner for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting this dish every week! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and sides.
Now, it’s your turn to fire up that slow cooker and create some culinary magic. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce low-sodium
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Once done, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the thickened sauce drizzled over top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.