Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a fantastic dinner choice because it's lean, tender, and cooks up quickly. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect canvas for any seasonings, and that's where this easy homemade honey garlic sauce comes in. The sweetness of honey complements the pork's natural juiciness, while the garlic adds a savory kick. Together, they create an outstanding balance of flavors that make this lean cut of pork taste delicious. 

This easy pork tenderloin is even better when made in the slow cooker! Slow-cooking pork tenderloin is the best choice for cooking because it guarantees tender, juicy results every time. All you have to do is mix a few ingredients for the sauce, pour them over the pork, set your slow cooker, and let it work its magic for a simple protein that is ready in no time. 

Serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or serve it in a sandwich for a satisfying meal. No matter how you enjoy it, this slow cooker pork tenderloin is packed with flavor and can be served for lunch and dinner or made for meal prep throughout the week! 

Ingredients You'll Need

• Pork Tenderloin - This lean cut of pork becomes incredibly tender and absorbs the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce during slow cooking.
• Honey - Adds natural sweetness to the dish, balancing the savory elements and creating a glaze on the pork.
• Ketchup - Provides a rich tomato base and contributes to the sweet and tangy flavor profile of the sauce.
• Rice Wine Vinegar - Offers a subtle acidity that enhances the overall balance of flavors in the sauce.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce - Infuses the dish with a deep umami taste while keeping the salt content in check.
• Onion and Minced Garlic - These aromatic ingredients provide a savory foundation and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Green Onions - Sliced green onions add a fresh, crisp element to the finished dish, both as a garnish and for a hint of mild onion flavor.

How To Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Prepare the pork tenderloin: Remove any excess fat from the pork tenderloin with a sharp knife. Pat it dry with paper towels. If it doesn't fit in the crock pot lengthwise, cut it in half horizontally, then add it to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. 

Make the honey garlic sauce: To a medium bowl, add the honey, ketchup, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and onion. Mix until well combined and pour over the top of the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.

Cover and cook: Add the lid to the top. Cook on HIGH for 2- 2 ½ hours or LOW for 4 hours until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Rest and slice: Using tongs, transfer the cooked pork tenderloin from the slow cooker to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon sauce over the top before serving. Enjoy! 

Variations

• If you prefer some heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy honey garlic pork twist.
• Add the zest of an orange or a lemon to the sauce for a bright and citrusy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of honey.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger into the sauce for a natural spicy kick.
• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for a nutty crunch and added depth of flavor.
• For a tropical twist, substitute the ketchup with pineapple juice and add small pineapple chunks to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy variation.
• Replace honey with molasses for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
• Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal. Serve with rice or quinoa.
• Mix a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a unique Asian-inspired twist, creating a creamy and nutty flavor.
• For a boozy twist, deglaze the slow cooker with a splash of whiskey before serving, giving your honey garlic pork a subtle smoky note.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: To store any leftover pork tenderloin, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop, and add a bit of extra sauce or broth to prevent dryness.

Freezing: Allow the pork to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a touch of extra sauce or broth as needed.

Recipe FAQs

More Slow Cooker Pork Recipes

• Crock Pot Pork Chops with Stuffing
• Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
• Crock Pot Sweet and Sour Pork
• Crock Pot Pork Carnitas

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