This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and tangy delight! The juicy pork cooks slowly, soaking up the pineapple juice and spices, making it super tender.
I love how simple this recipe is! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and you have a great meal ready when you return home. Who knew dinner could be this easy? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star of the dish! A 2 to 3-pound pork loin works best, but you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time since tenderloin cooks faster.
Pineapple Chunks: They add great sweetness! If canned pineapple isn’t available, fresh pineapple works well too. Just chop it up and toss it in with the other ingredients. For a twist, try using mango or peach slices.
Soy Sauce: This brings in salty flavors. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. For a low-sodium choice, go with low-sodium soy sauce.
Brown Sugar: It helps balance the acidity of the pineapple. If you’re out of brown sugar, regular white sugar can substitute, but add a bit of molasses (about 1 teaspoon) for that extra depth.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best! Minced garlic and ground ginger give great flavor, but if you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger instead. Just use less—about 1/4 teaspoon each.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork?
The trick to a melt-in-your-mouth pork loin is all in the slow cooking. The slow cooker does this perfectly. Here’s how:
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Don’t rush it! Cooking on low for 6-8 hours brings out the best flavors and tenderness.
- If using the optional thickening technique, be sure to mix the cornstarch with water until smooth before adding. This avoids lumps in your sauce.
These simple steps will ensure your pineapple pork is tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy your meal prep with this easy recipe. 🍽️
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Loin:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Thickening (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus a cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. A perfect no-fuss meal that you can set and forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by placing the pork loin in your slow cooker. Make sure it’s nice and snug in there to soak up all that delicious flavor.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and the sugar has dissolved.
3. Pour it All Together:
Now, pour this tasty mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker. Make sure the pork is coated well. Next, add the pineapple chunks on top to enhance the sweetness!
4. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook! You can choose low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Optional Thickening Step:
If you like a thicker sauce, remove the pork and pineapple after cooking and keep them warm. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan. Heat it on medium while stirring until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork loin into pieces and serve it with the pineapple chunks. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the top for extra flavor. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork loin, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method by sealing the pork in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. You can also use coconut aminos for a soy sauce alternative with a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re avoiding soy altogether, consider mixing a bit of balsamic vinegar with broth for a similar richness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pineapple pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Don’t forget to add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas into the slow cooker with the pork. Just keep in mind that they may need less cooking time, so add them about 1 to 2 hours before the pork is done to ensure they stay crisp-tender.
