Okay, friends, gather ‘round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s not just meal, it’s an appetizer. What is a mini-vacation for your taste buds? Slow-cooked pork loin, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple. Is it really one of those dishes that has everyone asking for seconds? Think of it as a tropical twist on your classic Sunday pot roast, but way easier and infinitely more delicious.Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.I’m so excited to share my family’s secret (well, not-so-secret anymore!) with you.
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What is slow cooker pineapple pork loin?
What is this magical thing?Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.What’s essentially a pork loin roast that simmers away in the slow cooker with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and sour cream? What are the ingredients for a sauce, brown sugar, and other key ingredients? Think of it as a luau in your crock pot! When pork is tender, it absorbs all the flavors, creating a sweet and sour flavor. This is the best pork I have ever had. What is a comforting and exotic dish? How do I get a good meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Plus, the pineapple tenderizes the pork, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender. Is this a genius?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin. is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, the flavor is simply incredible. You get that perfect balance of sweetness from the pineapple, a hint of savory from the soy sauce, and a touch of warmth from the ginger. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
But it’s not just the taste; this recipe is also ridiculously easy. I mean, seriously, dump everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing? What’s not to love? This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have time to slave over a hot stove. It is also very cost effective! Pork loin is often on sale, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that I always have on hand. You can feed a whole family for under $20!
And don’t even get me started on the versatility. This pork is amazing served over rice, in tacos, on sandwiches…the possibilities are endless! It reminds me a little bit of pulled pork, but with a tropical twist that’s just perfect for summer. Honestly, what I love most about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. My kids actually ask for this, and that’s saying something! Plus, the aroma that fills the house while it’s cooking is pure heaven. It’s like a fragrant promise of the deliciousness to come. This recipe is just a win-win all around.
How do I make a slow cooker pineapple pork loin?
Quick Overview
Making this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.Is a breeze? How do you make a simple sauce, sear the pork loin? What are some good ways to add flavor Is the slow cooker really cooking itself? What is the best part about this recipe? What can I do to have a delicious meal with minimal effort? Is this the perfect “set it and forget it” kind of dish?
Ingredients
For the Pineapple Pork Loin:
* 1 (2-3 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat. I usually go for a center cut loin for even cooking.
* 1 (20 ounce) can of pineapple chunks, undrained. Don’t drain! That juice is liquid gold!
* 1 cup pineapple juice. If you don’t have extra juice, you can use apple juice in a pinch, but pineapple is best!
* 1/2 cup soy sauce. I prefer low-sodium to control the saltiness.
* 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed. Light or dark brown works fine.
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. Adds a nice tanginess.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is always best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch (about 1 teaspoon).
* 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Don’t skip this! It really elevates the flavor.
* 1 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a subtle savory note.
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat). I like spiciness!
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, for thickening the sauce at the end of the cooking process) (optional) This is totally optional, but it makes the sauce beautifully glossy.
* Salt and pepper to taste.
How do I get start
Step 1: Sear Pork Loin (Optional, but Recommended) (optional)
Okay, this step is totally optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra layer of flavor. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Season pork loin with salt and pepper. What are some ways to sear on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. What is the best crust for a dish? Don’t skip this step if you have the time. It makes a world of difference.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the seared pork loin in the slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple chunks (with juice), pineapple juice, soy sauce, and salt. Set aside. Brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Pork Loin
How do you cook pork loin in a slow cooker? If it is not, don’t worry, it will still cook beautifully.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Fork-tender and easily shreds. What is the exact cooking time for pork loin?
Step 5: Shred the Pork (Optional)
Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes, then shred it with two forks. This is optional. Can you slice pork?
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you want a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in another small bowl. What is the best way to cook the mixture in a slow cooker? In a slow cooker, heat the sauce to high and cook for about 10 minutes. Turn the cooker on high. What consistency do you want, stirring occasionally? This step is totally optional, but I usually do it because I love a nice, thick sauce to drizzle.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.What are some good ways to serve tacos over rice, or on sandwiches? Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing stuff.Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin.What do you serve with it?For a Classic Meal:Serve it over fluffy white rice or brown rice, alongside some steamed broccoli or green beans. What are some of the best healthy meals to eat?What is a tropical feast? Pair it with coconut rice, grilled pineapple slices, and a side of coleslaw. It’s like a luau on your plate! I also love to add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
For Tacos or Sliders: Shred the pork and pile it into warm tortillas or slider buns. Top with your favorite taco toppings, like shredded cabbage, salsa, guacamole, and a squeeze of lime juice. It’s a fun and flavorful way to enjoy this pork!
For a Salad: Use the pork as a protein in a vibrant salad with mixed greens, bell peppers, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a light and refreshing option, perfect for warmer weather.
My family also loves it with a simple side of mashed sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the pork perfectly. No matter what you choose, this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is sure to be a hit!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Alright, friends, I’ve made this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here are my top tips for perfecting this recipe:
Don’t Skip the Sear (If You Can): Searing the pork loin before putting it in the slow cooker adds a beautiful depth of flavor. It creates a crust that locks in the juices and enhances the overall taste.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also add a diced jalapeño for extra flavor.
Fresh Ginger is Key: Don’t skimp on the fresh ginger! It really elevates the flavor of this dish. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger, but fresh is always best.
Thicken the Sauce to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use more cornstarch. If you like it thinner, use less or skip the cornstarch altogether. You can also use arrowroot powder as a substitute for cornstarch.
Don’t Overcook the Pork: Overcooked pork can be dry and tough. Cook it until it’s fork-tender and easily shreds. The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
Let it Rest: Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
I’ve also learned that adding a splash of lime juice at the end really brightens up the flavors. Trust me on this one!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so you’ve made this amazing Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin, and now you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat the pork, you can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. For the microwave, heat it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For the stovetop, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little bit of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. For the oven, bake it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
I’ve found that adding a little bit of fresh pineapple juice when reheating helps to keep the pork moist and flavorful. And if you’re reheating it from frozen, be sure to thaw it completely before reheating it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, my friends! My family’s favorite Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin recipe. This recipe is a total winner because of the amazing flavor and how incredibly simple it is to make. I hope you give this recipe a try and that you and your family love it as much as mine does. It’s seriously one of those dishes that just makes everyone happy! If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other slow cooker recipes for more easy and delicious meal ideas. I also have a great slow cooker Hawaiian chicken recipe that you can check out! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think, and be sure to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it. I’d love to hear about any variations you try, too!
Savory Slow Cooker Apple Pork Tenderloin: 7 Tips
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
- 4 lb pork tenderloin preferably boneless
- 3 medium apples cored and sliced
- 1.5 cup apple cider unsweetened
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth optional for extra juiciness
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture over the pork tenderloin to coat well.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side.
- Place the pork tenderloin into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add sliced apples and pour apple cider and chicken broth over the pork.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
