Pork tenderloin is a quick-cooking and lean cut of meat that adapts beautifully to the slow, moist heat of the crock pot. When cooked low and slow it transforms into incredibly tender and delicious pulled pork. But exactly how long does it take to cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
- Benefits of Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
- Estimated Cook Times Per Pound
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Choosing the Right Size
- Preventing Dryness and Ensuring Juiciness
- Seasoning and Flavoring Ideas
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage and Leftovers
Follow these tips and you’ll be able to make melt-in-your-mouth pork tenderloin easily in your slow cooker!
Why Cook Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot?
Cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot offers several advantages:
- Extended low cooking makes meat incredibly tender
- Keeps pork super moist and juicy
- Infuses pork with flavors from spices, herbs and sauces
- Minimal hands-on time – just prep and cook
- Perfectly cooked pork while you’re away
- Safe for leaving unattended while it cooks
- Saves oven and stovetop space
The moist, gentle heat of the crock pot is ideal for making this quick and lean cut turn out tender and delicious.
Estimated Cook Times Per Pound
- Low (190°F): 1.5 – 2 hours per lb
- High (300°F): 1 – 1.5 hours per lb
Keep in mind crock pots can vary in temperature. Always use a meat thermometer, as it’s easy to overcook.
For example, cooking times for a 1.5 lb tenderloin:
- Low: 2.5 – 3 hours
- High: 1.5 – 2 hours
Let’s look at how to cook pork tenderloin step-by-step in the crock pot.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
Follow these simple steps:
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Prep the pork Trim away excess fat and silver skin Pat dry and rub with oil Season all over with spices, herbs, sauces. Refrigerate 30 min up to overnight.
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Add to crock pot: Place pork in cooker and add 1/2 cup broth, wine, or water.
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Cook on low: Cook for approximately 1.5 – 2 hours per lb until fork tender.
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Check temp Meat should reach 140-145°F internally when done.
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Rest and slice: Let pork rest 10 minutes before slicing into medallions.
Be sure to use a meat thermometer for accurately cooked pork without overdoing it.
Choosing the Right Size Pork Tenderloin
- A 1-3 lb pork tenderloin is the ideal size for the crock pot.
- Larger tenderloins may need to be cut in half to fit in the crock pot.
- Double the weight = double the cook time as a general rule.
Preventing Dry Pork and Ensuring Juiciness
- Cook on low rather than high heat for best moisture retention.
- Submerge tenderloin partially in liquid.
- Wrap in bacon for extra moisture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook – use a meat thermometer.
- Let rest before slicing to retain juices.
Seasoning and Flavoring Ideas
- Dry rubs – Cajun, jerk, barbecue, ranch, lemon pepper
- Fresh herbs – rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley
- Wet marinades – soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, spices
- Barbecue or teriyaki sauce
- Fruit – pineapple, cranberry, applesauce
- Stuff with cheese and spinach
Serving and Meal Suggestions
- Pork medallions – Elegant entree with sauce
- Sandwiches – Pulled pork, French dip, hoagies
- Tacos – With salsa, guacamole, cilantro
- Salad – Sliced over spinach, mixed greens
- Grain bowls – Over rice, quinoa, farro
- Flatbread pizza – With veggies and cheese
Pork tenderloin is very versatile! Mix up your meals.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate cooked pork up to 4 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet, adding broth
- Freeze leftovers in airtight bags up to 4 months
With proper storage, enjoy delicious crock pot pork tenderloin for days!
- Cook on low 1.5 – 2 hours per lb for fork-tender pork
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
- Prevent dryness by cooking on low and retaining juices
- Infuse pork with amazing flavors from marinades and rubs
- Transform leftovers into endless meals
With the proper time, temperature and technique, you can easily make incredibly moist and tender pork tenderloin in your crock pot any night of the week.
How to Make Pork Tenderloin in a Slow-Cooker | Allrecipes
FAQ
Is it better to cook pork in a crock pot on high or low?
Should pork tenderloin be cooked fast or slow?
How do you know when pork loin is done in a crock pot?
Should I flip pork loin in slow-cooker?
How long do you cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot?
Cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot on low for 3-4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. (The pork may look undercooked in the picture above, but it will be well done after reheating.) Remove pork from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes. In the meantime, pour the cooking juices into a saucepan and whisk in the reserved marinade. Simmer until thickened into a sauce.
Can you cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin in a slow cooker. Cook it on Low for the recommended time. Remove the tenderloins from the slow cooker and slice them. Return the sliced pork to the slow cooker with the sauce and heat on High for a few more minutes. I like to garnish with more fresh rosemary, but you could also sprinkle with fresh parsley instead. TIP: Don’t skip the last step!
How long does crock pot pork tenderloin last?
Properly stored, leftover crock pot pork tenderloin lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a skillet with sauce or broth and simmer until hot and juicy. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to dry, tough meat.
How long do you cook pork ribs in a crock pot?
Cook pork tenderloin in a crock pot on low for 3-4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. (The pork may appear undercooked in the picture above, but it will be well done after reheating.) Remove pork from pot and let rest 10 minutes. Meanwhile, pour the cooking juices into a saucepan.