This Tender BBQ Pork Loin in the Slow Cooker features juicy pork infused with smoky, tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for a hassle-free meal, it’s an easy recipe that blends rich flavors into a healthy, slow-cooked delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tender BBQ pork loin in the slow cooker is a flavorful, healthy dish that transforms juicy pork into a smoky, tangy treat with a rich barbecue sauce, perfect for busy days. Easy to prep and hands-off with slow cooking, it’s versatile—serve with sides or in sandwiches—and packed with protein. The slow cooker’s gentle simmering creates a guilt-free indulgence that’s both delicious and convenient.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Sear Pork First: Adds depth of flavor before slow cooking.
- Use Low-Sodium BBQ: Controls saltiness for a balanced taste.
- Stir Sauce Occasionally: Ensures even coating during cooking.
- Check Doneness: Pork should reach 145°F internally.
- Thicken Sauce: Simmer on high if sauce is too thin.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Boosts flavor over powdered.
- Avoid Overfilling: Leave space for even cooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allows juices to redistribute.
- Serve Warm: Maximizes the BBQ-smoky contrast.
- Store Sauce Separately: Keeps pork moist if needed.
Tender BBQ Pork Loin in the Slow Cooker
Juicy tender BBQ pork loin, healthy slow cooker meal.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2-3 lbs boneless pork loin
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prep the Pork: Pat pork loin dry with paper towels and season lightly with black pepper.
- Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and brown sugar (if using) until smooth.
- Pour Over Pork: Pour the sauce over the pork loin in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and reaches 145°F.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove the pork to a plate. If the sauce needs thickening, cook on high for 10 minutes after stirring in 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water.
- Shred or Slice: Use two forks to shred the pork or slice it, then return it to the slow cooker and toss with the sauce.
- Rest the Dish: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes with the lid off to absorb flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with your favorite sides and savor this smoky, tangy treat!
Notes
- Sear pork for extra flavor; use low-sodium BBQ to control salt.
- Stir sauce occasionally for even coating; adjust sweetness to taste.
- Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
- This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or low-carb diets with appropriate swaps.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 755Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 272mgSodium 521mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 1gSugar 18gProtein 90g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Pork Loin (2-3 lbs): Boneless, trimmed for tenderness.
- BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Smoky variety, low-sodium preferred.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp): Adds a tangy kick.
- Honey (2 tbsp): Natural sweetener; adjust for sweetness.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Minced for aromatic depth.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances smoky flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For searing the pork.
- Brown Sugar (1 tbsp): Deepens sweetness; optional.
- Green Onions (2, chopped): For garnish and freshness.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Enhances seasoning.
Variations and Substitutions
- Pork Swap: Use pork shoulder or tenderloin; adjust cooking time.
- BBQ Sauce Alternative: Use homemade or spicy sauce with extra vinegar.
- Vinegar Swap: Use rice vinegar or lemon juice for a twist.
- Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup or erythritol.
- Spice Swap: Use chili powder or cayenne for heat.
- Oil Swap: Use avocado oil or omit for oil-free.
- Garnish Swap: Use parsley or cilantro instead of green onions.
- Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on BBQ sauce.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on stovetop.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat to avoid drying out.
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