This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and savory treat! The juicy pork cooks slowly with pineapple and tangy sauce for a flavor that’s hard to resist.
Who knew making dinner could be this simple? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic. I love serving it with rice for that extra yum! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This recipe shines with a 2 to 3-pound pork loin roast. If you can’t find pork loin, you can use a pork shoulder instead. It has a great flavor but might take a little longer to cook until tender.
Pineapple: Canned pineapple chunks work perfectly here, but fresh pineapple is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a fresher taste. Just chop it up and use it in the same way.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free variant, you can substitute coconut aminos or tamari. These work well without losing flavor, so you can stick to your dietary needs.
Brown Sugar: If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Both options add a nice sweetness while keeping the sauce delicious!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Loin Stays Tender?
Cooking pork loin in a slow cooker is a great way to achieve that tender and juicy result. Here are key steps to ensure success:
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Low heat helps break down the fibers in the meat without drying it out.
- Let the pork rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice juicy.
- Optional thickening: If you choose to thicken the sauce, adding cornstarch slurry at the end not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a nice glaze.
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin roast
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained, reserve juice
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6 to 8 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. It’s a great meal to set and forget, letting you enjoy your day while it cooks away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by placing the pork loin in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure it’s snug and ready for the flavorful juices!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir it well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the Delicious Mixture:
Carefully pour this tasty sauce over the pork loin, ensuring it’s well coated. This is where all the flavor comes from!
4. Add the Pineapple:
Now, take those drained pineapple chunks and scatter them on top of the pork. They’ll add a sweet and tangy kick!
5. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. It’s done when the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Just let the slow cooker do its magic!
6. Rest the Pork:
Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay in the meat when you slice it!
7. Optionally Thicken the Sauce:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, pour the cooking juices into a saucepan and bring them to a simmer on the stove. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until it thickens.
8. Slice and Serve:
Slice the pork loin and drizzle it with the thickened pineapple sauce. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh chopped green onions or parsley if you like!
9. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the pineapple pork loin with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and delightful meal. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
FAQ: Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork loin! However, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. You can also increase the cooking time by an hour to ensure it cooks through properly.
What Can I Serve with Pineapple Pork Loin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the sauce and put everything in the slow cooker the night before. Just store the pork and sauce in the fridge, and set the slow cooker in the morning to cook while you’re busy with your day!
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 water or sauce to keep it from drying out.
