Sweet and Savory BBQ Pork Tenderloin in the Crock Pot

Instructions

1. Gear Up for a Sweet-Savory Treat: Alright, let’s get this flavor party rolling—grab your slow cooker, a skillet, a tongs, a small bowl, a spoon, and a cutting board! This sweet and savory BBQ pork tenderloin is about to fill your kitchen with irresistible vibes. Picture that juicy, balanced goodness—let’s dive in with a big, excited grin lighting up our faces!
2. Prep the Pork with Savory Care: Unwrap your 2 lbs pork tenderloin—place it on your cutting board and pat it dry with paper towels, soaking up any moisture for a perfect sear. Grab a sharp knife and trim off any silver skin or excess fat—those bits can get chewy, so let’s keep it lean and lovely. Sprinkle it all over with salt and 1 teaspoon garlic powder, rubbing it in with your hands—imagine those warm, savory flavors sinking deep into the meat!
3. Sear the Pork for a Flavorful Crust: Heat your skillet over medium-high—drizzle in 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it shimmer for a minute, swirling it around to coat the pan evenly. Gently lower the seasoned tenderloin into the hot skillet—listen to that glorious sizzle as it hits! Sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, turning with tongs until it’s golden-brown all over—picture that crust locking in the juices. Once it’s seared, transfer it to your slow cooker, feeling like a kitchen champ!
4. Mix the Sweet-Savory BBQ Sauce Base: In your small bowl, pour 1 cup BBQ sauce—watch that thick, smoky goodness fill the bowl. Add 2 tablespoons maple syrup—drizzle it in slowly, letting that golden sweetness blend in, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce for that savory punch—stir with your spoon until it’s smooth and balanced. Imagine that sweet-savory magic coming together—it’s your flavor foundation!
5. Coat the Pork with Sauce Perfection: Take that BBQ sauce mixture—pour it gently over the seared pork in the slow cooker, letting it cascade down the sides and pool around the bottom. Use your spoon to spread it evenly, ensuring every inch of that tenderloin is coated in sweet-savory goodness—picture it soaking up those rich flavors as it cooks!
6. Set the Slow Cooker for Tender Bliss: Secure the lid on your slow cooker—plug it in and set it to low for 6-8 hours if you’re in for a slow, flavorful simmer, or high for 3-4 hours if you’re eager to taste it! Press start and step away—imagine the sweet and savory aroma filling your home while you relax, knowing a delicious meal’s on the way!
7. Check the Pork for Juicy Succulence: When the time’s up, lift the lid—inhale that rich, inviting scent and grab your tongs to check the pork. It should be fork-tender and hit 145°F inside—test it by shredding a small piece with a fork. Picture that juicy, tender texture—perfectly cooked and ready to melt in your mouth!
8. Stir the Sauce for Final Flavor: Give the sauce in the slow cooker a gentle stir with your spoon—mix it around the pork, letting those sweet maple and savory soy notes meld even more. Imagine it coating every bite—taste a tiny spoonful and adjust with a pinch of salt if you want a little extra pop!
9. Shred or Slice and Savor the Balance: Use two forks to shred the pork right in the cooker—mix it with the sauce until it’s fully coated in that sweet-savory goodness. Or lift it out with tongs, slice it into thick rounds with your knife, and spoon sauce over top—sneak a taste and tweak with more soy or maple if you like!
10. Serve Up Your Sweet-Savory Masterpiece: Spoon that juicy pork onto plates—pile it high for a hearty meal, stuff it into buns for sandwiches, or pack it for later! Grab a fork and dive into that tender, flavor-packed delight, savoring every sweet, savory bite. Pair it with a crisp salad or enjoy solo—it’s your crockpot triumph, so relish every delicious moment with a big, happy grin!