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Easy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe

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Tender, juicy slow cooker pork tenderloin takes just minutes to prep and delivers incredible flavor with a simple spice rub and rich gravy. This easy crock pot recipe ensures perfect results every time, reaching the safe 145°F internal temperature without drying out.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for optional searing)

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1 cup low-sodium beef broth

4 tablespoons salted butter, cut into pats

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or thyme

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional gravy thickener: 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Prep the pork: Pat tenderloins dry with paper towels. Trim silver skin (tough membrane) with a sharp knife for tenderness. Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub evenly over all sides.

2. Layer the slow cooker: Add sliced onions to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base. Place rubbed tenderloins on top.

3. Optional sear for flavor: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear each tenderloin 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to slow cooker. Skip for truly hands-off prep.

4. Add liquids and cook: Pour beef broth around the pork. Top with butter pats. Cover and cook on low for 2-2.5 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer – remove at 145°F for juicy results. Rest 10 minutes tented with foil.

5. Make gravy: Strain juices into a saucepan. Whisk cornstarch slurry into juices; simmer until thickened, 2-3 minutes. Slice pork and serve with gravy.

Notes

Pro tip: Slow cookers vary, so test early to avoid overcooking. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Use an instant-read thermometer every time – pork is safe and pink at 145°F after resting.

For low-carb, skip sugar in rub and pair with zucchini noodles.

Add quick-cook veggies like green beans in the last 30 minutes; avoid potatoes unless pre-boiled.

Resting redistributes juices for sliceable tenderness.

Double the rub for bolder flavor or add 1/2 teaspoon cumin for smokiness.

Freezer prep: Rub pork, bag with onions/broth, thaw overnight before cooking.

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