Pulled pork is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. While pork shoulder is the traditional cut used pork tenderloin can also be turned into deliciously moist and tender pulled pork with the right technique. The crock pot is the perfect appliance for low and slow cooking allowing the pork to become fall-apart tender after several hours.
In this detailed guide I’ll walk through everything you need to know to make succulent flavorful pulled pork tenderloin easily in the crock pot. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have tender shreds of pork ready for sandwiches, tacos, salads, nachos and more family-friendly meals. Let’s get cooking!
Benefits of Using Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin offers some advantages over other cuts like shoulder or butt:
-
It’s very lean and low in fat. Each serving has just 3 grams of fat.
-
Tenderloin is quicker cooking It can be done in 4-6 hours rather than 8-12 for pork butt,
-
The price is lower than pork shoulder, making it budget-friendly.
-
Portion control is easier since tenderloins are smaller sized cuts.
-
It produces delicious pulled pork with the right technique!
Keys to Tender Pulled Pork Tenderloin
-
Low and slow: Crockpots cook at lower temperatures over longer times to break down collagen.
-
Add liquid: The moist environment helps make the pork juicy and shreddable.
-
Use the right seasonings: Flavorful rubs or sauces give great taste.
-
Shred by hand: Pulling it apart with two forks gives the right texture.
Follow the steps below for tenderloin pulled “porkfection” every time.
Ingredients Needed
-
1-2 pound pork tenderloin
-
1⁄2 cup chicken broth or water
-
Dry rub: smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper
-
BBQ sauce or marinade
-
Slow cooker
-
2 forks for shredding
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the tenderloin: Pat dry and trim off any excess fat or silverskin. Cut into large chunks to reduce cooking time.
-
Make a dry rub: Combine 1 tsp each smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
-
Coat all sides: Generously rub spice mix all over pork pieces. This adds tons of flavor.
-
Slow cook: Place pork in crockpot and add broth or water around edges. Cook on High for 4-6 hours until fork tender.
-
Shred by hand: Use 2 forks to pull pork into shreds. Be gentle to maintain tender texture.
-
Mix in sauce: Return shredded pork to crockpot and mix in 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce or marinade.
-
Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more spices, salt, pepper or sauce as desired.
-
Serve warm: Pile high on buns for sandwiches or use in your favorite recipes.
And that’s it – deliciously easy pulled pork tenderloin ready in about 5 hours! Now let’s go over some additional tips and tricks.
Handy Tips for Perfect Results
-
Look for uniform tenderloins without tapering ends to cook evenly.
-
Cut tenderloin into 3-4 large chunks to reduce cooking time.
-
Add sauce at the end to prevent overcooking and burning.
-
Use smoked Spanish paprika for the best flavor.
-
Make pulled pork up to 3 days ahead. Reheat gently before serving.
-
Store leftovers in freezer up to 4 months. Thaw in fridge before using.
-
Double or triple recipe for a crowd. Add 15 mins cook time per extra pound.
Common Questions
What if it’s not shredding easily? Continue cooking until fork tender, checking every 30 mins. Pork can vary in doneness.
Why is it tough and dry? Overcooking is the usual culprit. Next time, stop as soon as it shreds easily with forks to stay juicy.
Can I use pork shoulder instead? Absolutely. Follow same steps but cook 8-10 hours on Low until fall-apart tender.
Can I use a seasoning packet? Yes, use your favorite pork or taco packet instead of the dry rub. Adjust salt as needed.
How can I make it spicy? Add minced jalapenos, chili powder, cayenne or other spices to the rub and sauce.
Serving Ideas
Pulled pork tenderloin is versatile and perfect in:
-
Sandwiches – Serve piled high on brioche buns with bbq sauce, coleslaw and dill pickles.
-
Tacos – Stuff in soft tortillas with pineapple salsa and queso fresco for a twist.
-
Nachos – Top corn chips with pork, beans, cheese, avocado and cilantro.
-
Baked potatoes – Mix pork with sour cream, chives, bacon and cheddar for loaded spuds.
-
Salads – Toss tenderloin pieces in green salads or taco salads for added protein.
-
Breakfast – Add to a breakfast hash or pile on biscuits with eggs and cheese.
-
Pizza – Top baked pizza crust with pork, mozzarella, red onion and cilantro.
The possibilities are endless! Pork tenderloin is also budget friendly, quick cooking and lean, making it perfect for busy family dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between pork shoulder and tenderloin?
Pork shoulder contains more fat, connective tissue and collagen. It needs to cook low and slow to get tender. The lean tenderloin becomes tender more quickly.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork tenderloin?
Cook on High for 4-6 hours until fork tender. Larger cuts may need up to 8 hours. Always shred to test doneness rather than relying on cook times.
Can you use a pork loin instead?
Pork loin is similar in leanness and texture to the tenderloin. Follow the same method, cooking for 4-6 hours until shredding easily with forks.
IsPork tenderloin too lean for pulled pork?
While fattier cuts are traditional, using the moist crockpot environment and not overcooking keeps tenderloin nice and moist. It makes delicious pulled pork.
What liquid is best to use?
Chicken or vegetable broth provides the most flavor, but water works fine as well. Avoid using acidic liquids like wine or tomato products.
Tips for Meal Prep and Leftovers
-
Let pork rest in fridge at least 30 minutes before shredding for easiest shredding.
-
Portion into containers right after shredding, then refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for later use.
-
For make-ahead meals, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.
-
Add extra sauce or braising liquid when reheating if pork seems dry.
-
Use leftover pork within a week for peak freshness and texture. The flavor remains but texture declines over time.
More Delicious Pork Crock Pot Recipes
-
Italian Pork Roast with Vegetables: Flavorful herbed pork roast made with onion, carrot and potato.
-
Sweet and Spicy Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs coated in a sticky, ginger-spiked glaze.
-
Carnitas Tacos: Brined pork simmered with citrus and spices for authentic carnitas flavor.
-
Asian Pulled Pork: Ginger, chili sauce, hoisin and spices give an Asian zing.
-
Green Chili Pork: Savory pork stewed in tangy tomatillos, green chiles and cilantro.
The crockpot does the work for you, infusing pork with spice and flavor. With so many possibilities for customization, pulled pork tenderloin makes for a fun, family-friendly meal any night of the week. Give it a try and get ready to enjoy tender, juicy pulled pork in just a few hours.