Cooking a savory Smithfield pork loin filet in a crock pot is an easy way to make a tasty, tender meal with minimal effort. This lean cut becomes fall-apart tender and infused with flavor when slowly simmered in a crock pot. Follow these simple steps for crock pot success every time.
Choosing the Right Cut
Look for a Smithfield boneless pork loin filet that is around 1-2 lbs. This size will fit nicely in a 6 quart crock pot. The filet refers to the tenderloin muscle that runs along the backbone making it extra lean and tender.
Prep Work
Start by trimming off any excess fat or silver skin from the pork loin. Then, pat dry with paper towels and lightly season all over with salt and pepper. I also like to rub on a teaspoon of olive oil to help the spices stick. This step ensures the pork stays moist as it cooks.
Flavor Boosters
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork loin overnight in a zesty blend. A marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme and lemon juice does the trick. You can also coat the meat with a dry rub of brown sugar, chili powder, cumin and cayenne for a southwestern flair.
Liquid Layer
Pour 1/2 cup of liquid into the crock pot to prevent drying out. Options include chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider, wine or fruit juice. I love using pineapple juice for a subtle sweetness that pairs great with pork.
Seasonings
Next, add seasoning to taste. Try garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika or italian herbs. For a savory boost, sprinkle in 1/4 tsp of pepper and minced garlic. Soy sauce, hoisin or teriyaki are tasty options too.
Slow Cook to Perfection
Place seasoned pork loin in crock pot and set heat to low. Cook time will be 6-8 hours for a 1-2 lb filet. Resist lifting the lid during cooking to prevent heat loss. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temp of 145 F.
Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove pork from crock pot and let rest 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute so meat stays moist. Carve into slices across the grain for tender bites.
Delectable Side Dishes
Serve juicy pork slices with flavorful accents like roasted Brussels sprouts, honey glazed carrots, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa salad. A drizzle of barbecue sauce takes it over the top!
Savory Spice Mixes
Feel free to get creative with spices and aromatics for one-of-a-kind flavor A Moroccan blend of cumin, cinnamon, coriander and cayenne does nicely For an Italian twist, use oregano, basil, fennel and red pepper flakes.
Tangy Marinades
Marinating is an easy way to infuse big flavor into the pork before cooking. Try soaking the loin overnight in a zesty mixture of olive oil, chopped garlic, lime juice, jalapeño and cilantro. The lime adds bright citrus notes while the jalapeño brings on some heat.
Caramelized Onions
For rich sweetness, cook down onions in the crock pot for an hour before adding pork loin. Brown sugar helps the onions caramelize into a delicious, jammy topping for the sliced meat. Sprinkling on fresh rosemary adds woodsy aroma.
Apple and Maple Syrup
Warm flavors of apple and maple make an excellent flavor combo with pork. Simply add diced apples, maple syrup, minced garlic and thyme to crock pot before placing pork loin on top. The apples soften into a chunkyapple maple sauce, perfect for spooning over pork slices.
Pineapple Salsa
Make an easy pineapple salsa by mixing diced pineapple, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice and diced jalapeño. Pour salsa over cooked pork in crock pot for the last 30 minutes so flavors meld together. The sweet and spicy salsa puts a tropical twist on classic pork loin.
Herbed Pork Au Jus
Transform pan drippings into a sauce for the sliced pork loin. Remove cooked pork from crock pot, then stir cornstarch into remaining juices to thicken. Cook 5 minutes then stir in rosemary, sage and thyme. Drizzle this savory herb jus over individual portions for an elegant presentation.
Time Saving Tips
- Prepare marinade or spice rub the night before for more flavor infusion.
- Chop and prep any veggies or fruit to add to crock pot ahead of time.
- Cook on high for 4 hours instead of low for 8 hours for faster cooking.
- Shred leftovers to make yummy carnitas tacos or pork sandwiches.
With the right prep, spice mix and cooking time, you’ll have fork-tender Smithfield pork loin filets ready to slice and serve. This lean, elegant cut deserves a spot in your crock pot rotation.
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FAQ
How do you cook a Smithfield pork loin fillet?
Is pork loin filet the same as pork tenderloin?
Should I flip pork loin in slow-cooker?
How long to cook Smithfield pork tenderloin in crock pot?
The recommended cooking time for Smithfield pork tenderloin in a crock pot is typically 4 to 6 hours on low heat. However, it’s always best to consult the package instructions or use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Should I sear the pork tenderloin before putting it in the crock pot?
Can you cook pork loin in a crock pot?
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the heat to low. Let the pork loin filet cook for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork loin filet from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful final dish.
How long to cook pork loin filet in crock pot?
The cooking time for pork loin filet in a crock pot can vary depending on the size of the filet and the temperature setting of your crock pot. On average, it takes about 4-6 hours on the low setting or 2-3 hours on the high setting. However, using a meat thermometer is essential to check for doneness.
How long do you cook Smithfield pork Lin in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for Smithfield Pork Loin in a slow cooker may vary depending on the size and the desired level of tenderness. As a general guideline, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Should I sear the Smithfield Pork Loin before putting it in the slow cooker?