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Tender Crockpot Pork Tenderloin Recipe with Easy Apple Cider Glaze

tender crockpot pork tenderloin - featured image

A simple and soulful slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze that results in fall-apart tender meat with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for searing)
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry and trim off any silver skin or excess fat. Season generously with salt, pepper, and cinnamon if using.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes each until golden brown. Transfer to the crockpot.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  4. Place fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs on top of the pork if using. Pour the glaze evenly over the pork in the crockpot.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Avoid opening the lid frequently.
  6. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
  7. Optional: Pour the crockpot liquid into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced by half and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Drizzle over sliced pork.

Notes

Searing the pork before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture but is optional. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Simmer the glaze liquid after cooking to thicken it for a glossy finish. Rest the pork for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Avoid opening the crockpot lid frequently to maintain cooking temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, crockpot, slow cooker, apple cider glaze, easy dinner, comfort food, fall recipe