Description
A simple and flavorful slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sweet and savory apricot glaze that results in tender, juicy meat perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
- ½ cup apricot preserves (about 160g)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low sodium for less saltiness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Trim any silver skin or excess fat. Season generously with black pepper and a pinch of salt if desired.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side (optional but recommended).
- In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Place the browned pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Pour the apricot glaze evenly over the pork, coating it well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Spoon some of the remaining glaze over the slices for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes
Browning the pork before slow cooking is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety and tenderness. If the glaze is too thin after cooking, simmer it in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. You can also roast the pork in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes if you don’t have a slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2.5-3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 oz (115g) co
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 28
Keywords: slow cooker pork tenderloin, apricot glaze, easy pork recipe, slow cooker dinner, tender pork, apricot preserves glaze, weeknight dinner, crowd-pleaser