Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin makes dinnertime a breeze while delivering juicy, flavorful pork every single time. It cooks low and slow in a rich onionbased gravy that keeps the meat tender and moist. Whether you’re coming home from a busy day or just want a comforting meal without the fuss, this recipe fits perfectly.

I first made this when I wanted a meal ready after work with minimal effort. Now it’s my go to for easy dinners that still impress my family with rich flavor and meltinyourmouth pork.

Ingredients

• Onion: provides a natural sweetness and depth to both the pork and gravy slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Pork tenderloins: choose tenderloins that are firm and pale pink with minimal fat for best texture and flavor
• Low sodium beef broth: keeps salt levels in check while adding savory richness to the cooking liquid
• Packet pork gravy mix: offers a quick way to thicken and flavor the gravy without extra fuss if unavailable, au jus or beef gravy packet works well instead
• Salted butter: real butter adds richness and helps create a smooth gravy avoid margarine for best taste
• Olive oil: for searing the pork which locks in juices and builds a flavorful crust
• Salt and freshly ground pepper: use generously to season the meat so every bite is perfectly balanced

Instructions

Sauté the Onions:

Spray a 6 or 8quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Slice onions evenly and place them in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. They act as a flavorful bed for the pork and create the base for the gravy.

Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:

Pat the pork tenderloins dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a good sear. Season all sides of the tenderloins liberally with salt and freshly ground pepper.

Sear the Pork:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat until shimmering. Sear one tenderloin at a time, turning frequently until all sides develop a rich goldenbrown crust. This step locks in the juices and builds flavor depth in the final dish.

Layer Pork over Onions in Slow Cooker:

Transfer the seared tenderloins carefully to rest on top of the bed of sliced onions in the slow cooker. Pour the low sodium beef broth around, avoiding pouring directly over the pork to keep the sear intact.

Add Gravy Mix and Butter:

Sprinkle the pork gravy packet evenly over the tenderloins. Cut salted butter into slices and place them on top of each tenderloin, which will melt into the gravy as it cooks adding richness.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Check the internal temperature which should be at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. The onions should be soft and the pork tender and juicy.

Serve:

Slice the pork tenderloin with a sharp knife and serve immediately. Spoon the onions and gravy over the pork for maximum flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Butter is the unsung hero here adding both flavor and texture to the gravy. I love how it melts slowly over the pork as it cooks, giving the sauce a silky finish. One family dinner we all still talk about involved homemade gravy made from scratch and this slow cooker version brings back that nostalgia without the effort.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, place pork and gravy in an airtight container for refrigeration up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to three months. Reheat gently in the slow cooker or stovetop in slices to keep the pork moist and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Pork loin can replace tenderloin but requires slightly longer cooking and careful temperature monitoring. Beef gravy mix or au jus packets work as alternatives to pork gravy mix without sacrificing flavor. Chicken broth can stand in for beef broth, though it will make the gravy lighter in taste.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta soak up the rich onion gravy perfectly. Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts make a colorful side. Fried apples or a crisp green salad add brightness and contrast to the hearty pork.

This slow cooker pork tenderloin is an easy, impressive weeknight dinner that reheats well for leftovers. It delivers tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow?

Cooking pork tenderloin on low heat for 2-2.5 hours ensures it stays juicy and tender, while faster cooking on high heat around 1 hour is possible but may reduce moisture.

→ Can pork be overcooked in a slow cooker?

Yes, leaving pork too long can dry it out. Follow cook times closely and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for best results.

→ Is liquid necessary when slow cooking pork?

Adding beef broth or another liquid keeps the pork moist and helps create a flavorful gravy as it cooks low and slow.

→ Can onions be precooked before slow cooking?

Yes, sautéing onions first adds deeper flavor, but raw onions also provide excellent taste and moisture when cooked in the slow cooker.

→ Can other pork cuts be used for this method?

Pork loin can be used, but adjust cook times as needed and always check internal temperature for doneness.

→ How do I thicken the gravy after cooking?

Strain cooking liquids and whisk in a cornstarch-water slurry on the stove until thick, or add slurry directly to the slow cooker and increase heat to thicken.

→ What sides complement slow-cooked pork tenderloin?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salads, mac and cheese, or fried apples for a balanced meal.

→ How should leftover pork be stored?

Cool to room temperature, refrigerate in airtight containers up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying.