This Crock Pot Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin is juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients like garlic and balsamic vinegar, you’ll have a tender dish ready to enjoy.
The best part? You can set it and forget it! I love throwing everything in the pot and going about my day, knowing a tasty dinner awaits. Perfect with mashed potatoes or veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: A lean cut, pork loin is perfect here. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using a pork tenderloin instead. Just adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work, but may alter the taste somewhat. A splash of maple syrup can sweeten it up.
Soy Sauce: It provides salty depth. For a gluten-free version, you can use tamari instead. If you’re watching sodium intake, try using low-sodium soy sauce.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add a nice sweetness. For a more natural sweetener, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar in a 1:1 ratio.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. However, if you’re out of fresh cloves, garlic powder can be a substitution, but use a smaller amount (1/2 tsp for every clove).
How Can I Get the Pork Perfectly Tender?
To achieve that tender pork, the cooking time and method are key. Here’s how you can ensure it’s juicy:
- Using a slow cooker allows the meat to cook low and slow, melting away connective tissue.
- After browning, oil helps to lock in moisture and flavor. For best results, brown it on all sides before adding to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Higher temperatures can dry out the meat, so low and slow is your friend.
- Let the pork rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a moist slice every time.
With these tips and insights, you’ll create a delicious and tender crock pot garlic balsamic pork loin! Enjoy your cooking!
Crock Pot Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork loin roast
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 2 tsp fresh)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep, plus 6 to 8 hours for cooking on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). That means you can pop it in the crock pot in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by patting the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps with browning. Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Brown the Pork:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Browning locks in wonderful flavor!
3. Mix Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, dried rosemary, and thyme until well combined. This tangy sauce is what makes the pork so delicious!
4. Assemble in Crock Pot:
Place the quartered onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, put the browned pork loin right on top of the onions. Pour the balsamic mixture over the pork, coating it nicely.
5. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork is done when it’s tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You want it juicy and easy to slice!
6. Rest and Slice:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then slice it into medallions.
7. Serve:
To serve, spoon some of the delicious sauce and cooked onions over the sliced pork. If you like, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Crock Pot Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! You can use pork tenderloin or a pork shoulder instead of pork loin. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary, with tenderloin cooking faster than a larger roast like shoulder.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Garlic?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of garlic or need to avoid it, you can simply omit it. The recipe will still taste great, and you can enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices like onion powder or smoked paprika.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow the pork to cool completely, then slice and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
