20 Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes Pork Tender

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Getting ready to cook a delicious meal without sacrificing too much time or effort? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! Pork tenderloin, in particular, is a great candidate for slow cooking, as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a wide range of mouthwatering dishes that are perfect for any occasion.

From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 scrumptious slow cooker recipes featuring pork tenderloin as the star of the show. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for an easy weeknight dinner solution or a home cook seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to please.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce

Elevate your comfort food game with this effortless slow cooker recipe that yields tender, fall-apart pork smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, and water.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve with additional BBQ sauce for dipping, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Crockpot Pork Carnitas

Transform your pork shoulder into tender, juicy carnitas with this easy Crockpot recipe. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or serving alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. In the Crockpot, combine pork shoulder, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred the pork with two forks when it’s tender and falls apart easily.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro (if using) and serve with your favorite toppings or sides.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apples

Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Apples: A Deliciously Easy Meal

This recipe combines the tender flavor of pork loin with the natural sweetness of apples, all achieved with minimal effort using your slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.

Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Add the sliced apples on top of the onion.
4. Place the pork loin on top of the apple mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with brown sugar.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Sweet and savory, these slow cooker pork chops are a perfect comfort food dish for a cozy evening. With minimal prep work and only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful pork chops in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 boneless pork chops
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the pork chops.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Pork and Sauerkraut

This classic dish is a staple of German cuisine, with tender pork shoulder cooked to perfection in a tangy sauerkraut sauce. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a busy day when you need a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, layer the chopped onion, sauerkraut, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and caraway seeds.
3. Place the pork shoulder on top of the sauerkraut mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables

This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The pork shoulder becomes tender and flavorful, while the root vegetables add natural sweetness and texture.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Add the chicken broth, brown sugar, and seared pork shoulder to the pot.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Slow Cooker Pork Adobo

Pork adobo is a classic Filipino dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This slow cooker version is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine pork pieces, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
4. Serve with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Cooking Time: 4-8 hours

Maple Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin

Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory pork tenderloin dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Place the pork tenderloin in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the meat.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Slow Cooker Pork and Beans

This slow cooker recipe combines tender pork with creamy beans and a hint of smokiness, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Place the pork in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Stir in the red kidney beans.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Pork Stew with Red Wine and Herbs

This rich and savory stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender pork, red wine, and aromatic herbs come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces, then remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven.
6. Simmer at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours or until the pork is tender.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Slow Cooker Pork Posole

A hearty, comforting Mexican stew that’s perfect for a cold winter day or any time you need a warm and satisfying meal. This slow cooker pork posole recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add pork, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Asian-Inspired Pork Belly

Transform pork belly into a tender and flavorful dish inspired by Asian cuisine. This recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and five-spice powder to create a mouthwatering main course.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
3. Place pork belly in a large baking dish or roasting pan, skin side up.
4. Pour the marinade over the pork belly, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Slow Cooker Pork and Pineapple Curry

Slow Cooker Pork and Pineapple Curry Recipe Summary:

Experience the perfect blend of tender pork, sweet pineapple, and spicy curry flavors with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. This dish is great for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine pork, pineapple, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and honey. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro (optional).

Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)

Pork Ribs with Coca-Cola Glaze

A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pork ribs, this recipe combines the richness of pork with the deep flavor of Coca-Cola. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Coca-Cola, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the pork ribs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Cooking Time: 3 hours

Slow Cooker Pork Goulash

This slow cooker recipe is a twist on the classic Hungarian dish, featuring tender pork and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm, comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
3. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using).
4. Sprinkle caraway seeds over the mixture.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Pork and Sweet Potato Chili

This hearty, comforting chili is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, made with tender pork, caramelized sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. A great option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the cooked pork; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Slow Cooker Pork Ramen

Transform your slow cooker into a savory Japanese-inspired kitchen with this comforting pork ramen recipe. With tender pork, rich broth, and springy noodles, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger. Place the pork shoulder in the mixture.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Slice the cooked pork into thin strips.
6. Assemble the ramen by placing noodles in a bowl, topping with sliced pork, and garnishing with green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions (if using).

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Pork and Mushroom Stroganoff

This hearty dish combines tender pork strips, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich sauce, all served over fluffy egg noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Return pork to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over egg noodles.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Slow Cooker Pork and Cabbage Rolls

Slow Cooker Pork and Cabbage Rolls: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

Transform tender pork and crunchy cabbage into a mouthwatering slow-cooked dish with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these rolls are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 head of cabbage, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of a cabbage leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
4. Roll up the cabbage leaf tightly and place seam-side down in the slow cooker. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and crusty bread.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Pork with Creamy Mustard Sauce

Elevate your pork dishes with a rich and tangy creamy mustard sauce that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional pork recipes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork chops or tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pork and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer pork to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While pork is cooking, combine Dijon mustard and heavy cream in the skillet. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve pork with creamy mustard sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

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