This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The garlic herb rub permeates the meat, while the honey balsamic glaze adds a rich, tangy finish. Slow cooking the pork ensures it stays tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors in the pot. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a comforting, wholesome meal.Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients and the slow-cooking method allows the natural flavors to shine through. It’s a family favorite that will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation, offering both ease and elegance for any occasion.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 lb)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ⅓ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Directions:
- If the pork tenderloin is too long for your slow cooker, cut it in half. Otherwise, leave it whole.
- In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, parsley, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the mixture over the pork tenderloin and place it in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, honey, ketchup, and cornstarch. Pour the glaze over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or high for 1.5-2 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 150-160°F.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Optional: To thicken the glaze, strain the sauce into a small pot, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 teaspoon water, and stir it into the sauce. Cook on medium-high heat until thickened.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 187 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Background and Benefits of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Glaze
This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe is a perfect example of how the slow cooker can transform a relatively lean cut of meat into something incredibly tender, flavorful, and satisfying. Pork tenderloin is often considered a bit tricky to cook because of its leanness, meaning it can dry out quickly if not cooked properly. However, slow cooking allows the meat to stay moist and juicy while also infusing it with the rich, bold flavors of the garlic herb rub and honey balsamic glaze.
Why Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is one of the most tender and versatile cuts of pork. It comes from the muscle that runs along the backbone of the pig, which is not heavily used, making it naturally tender. While pork tenderloin is leaner than pork loin, it still has a rich flavor when paired with the right ingredients. The lack of fat means it’s a healthier option compared to fattier cuts like pork shoulder or pork belly, yet with the right preparation, it can be just as indulgent.
In this recipe, the honey balsamic glaze adds moisture, richness, and a delightful sweetness that complements the tender meat without overwhelming it. The glaze’s slight tang from the balsamic vinegar balances the sweetness from the honey, offering a well-rounded flavor profile. The garlic herb rub further enhances the pork, giving it a depth of flavor that complements the glaze beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits
Pork tenderloin is a great source of high-quality protein, providing essential amino acids that help with muscle repair and overall body function. At only 187 calories per serving, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a perfect option for those watching their intake while still enjoying a hearty meal. Additionally, it’s rich in important nutrients such as potassium, zinc, and vitamin B6, which support heart health, immune function, and energy metabolism.
The glaze, made with honey and balsamic vinegar, adds both flavor and health benefits. Honey, a natural sweetener, provides antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. Balsamic vinegar has been shown to support digestion and improve blood sugar levels, making this recipe not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Ease and Convenience: One of the standout features of this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is how easy it is to prepare. With only about 10 minutes of prep time, the rest of the work is done by the slow cooker, allowing you to go about your day without needing to monitor the cooking process. This hands-off cooking method is perfect for busy families, professionals, or anyone who wants a delicious meal with minimal effort.
- Slow Cooking Magic: The slow cooker is known for its ability to enhance flavors and tenderize meat. In this recipe, the slow cooker ensures that the pork tenderloin remains moist and tender, as the low-and-slow cooking method allows the juices and flavors to fully penetrate the meat. You get all the benefits of a slow-cooked meal without having to stand over the stove or oven.
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of the savory garlic herb rub with the sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze creates an unbeatable flavor profile. The garlic and herbs provide an earthy, robust foundation, while the honey and balsamic glaze add a beautiful contrast of sweetness and acidity. This balance makes the pork tenderloin taste indulgent, but it’s also light and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. It works wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad. The tenderloin can also be shredded and used in sandwiches, tacos, or wraps, making it great for meal prepping or creating leftovers that don’t feel repetitive.
- Adaptable to Different Diets: With just a few adjustments, this recipe can easily fit into various dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made keto-friendly by swapping honey for a low-carb sweetener. If you’re cutting back on sodium, simply use a low-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
To get the best results with this recipe, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Season Generously: While pork tenderloin is naturally flavorful, it benefits from a generous seasoning rub. Be sure to coat the meat thoroughly with the garlic herb rub, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Watch the Cook Time: Overcooking pork tenderloin can cause it to dry out. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork is done when it reaches around 145°F, and it will continue to rise slightly as it rests. This ensures the meat remains tender and juicy.
- Thicken the Glaze: If you want a thicker, more concentrated glaze, simply strain the liquid after cooking and reduce it on the stove. A cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water) can also be added to help thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Let the Meat Rest: Always let your pork tenderloin rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when sliced.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly adaptable, which is one of its best qualities. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Swap the Pork for Chicken: If pork isn’t your preference, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used in place of the pork tenderloin. The cooking time remains the same, and the honey balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with chicken as well.
- Try Different Sweeteners: Don’t have honey? No problem! You can substitute it with maple syrup, brown sugar, or even agave syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a complete one-pot meal, you can add quick-cooking vegetables like green beans or bell peppers to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Just be mindful that heartier vegetables, like potatoes and carrots, may require pre-cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Glaze is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide range of side dishes. Some great options include:
- Mashed Potatoes: The rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes is the perfect complement to the tender, flavorful pork.
- Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of rice or quinoa can help soak up the delicious glaze and make the meal more substantial.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the pork with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a well-rounded, healthy dinner.
- Salad: For a lighter option, serve the pork over a fresh green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Glaze is a shining example of how slow cooking can transform a simple, lean cut of meat into a flavorful, tender dish that’s sure to impress. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that is nutritious, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Its versatility, ease, and unbeatable taste make it the perfect addition to any meal rotation.
