This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and tangy delight! The pork becomes super tender as it cooks slowly with juicy pineapple and a splash of soy sauce. Yum!
I love how hands-off this recipe is—just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days when you still want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star of the dish! A lean cut with great flavors. If you’re looking for a substitution, try using pork shoulder for a richer flavor, or chicken breast for a lighter option—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple is easy and convenient, but fresh pineapple can add an extra zing. If you’re avoiding sugar, use a no-sugar-added variety or reduce the amount of honey for a lighter touch.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free version, go for tamari or coconut aminos. If you prefer something milder, try low-sodium soy sauce.
Brown Sugar: This gives sweetness and depth. You can substitute it with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different but yummy flavor. Adjust the amount to taste!
Honey: For more sweetness, consider agave syrup or simply omit it if you’re reducing sugar intake. The dish will still turn out delicious!
How Do You Ensure the Pork Loin Stays Tender in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking pork loin in a slow cooker is all about getting that tenderness just right. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a good sear: For extra flavor, consider browning the pork loin first in a skillet. This adds a nice crust.
- Use enough liquid: The reserved pineapple juice and other ingredients make a flavorful sauce. Don’t skip it!
- Cook low and slow: For best results, set your slow cooker on low. This allows the meat to break down and become super tender. If you’re in a rush, you can cook it on high, but keep an eye on time.
- Let it rest: After cooking, letting the pork rest helps the juices redistribute. This means more flavorful slices when you cut it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Dish:
- 2-3 lbs pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (drained, reserve juice)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions or fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and will need about 6 to 8 hours in the slow cooker if you’re cooking on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high. You’ll just mix the sauce, prepare the pork, and let the slow cooker do the hard work while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In this bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk to combine everything until it’s smooth and well blended.
2. Preparing the Pork Loin:
Now, take your pork loin and place it into the slow cooker. Pour the delicious sauce mixture all over the pork, making sure it’s well-coated.
3. Adding the Pineapple:
Next, it’s time for the pineapple! Add the drained pineapple chunks around the pork loin in the slow cooker. Spread them out so they can soak up all that wonderful flavor as it cooks.
4. Slow Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker. If you’re cooking on low, let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you need it done quicker, you can set it on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender and fully cooked!
5. Slicing and Serving:
Once your pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep all the juices in. Serve the sliced pork on plates and drizzled with the sweet sauce and pineapple. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for a nice finishing touch!
Enjoy this sweet and savory dish with your favorite sides!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork tenderloin or pork shoulder if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with a shoulder cut that might take longer to become tender. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, simply remove the pork once it’s cooked, and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer and whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) until it thickens. Pour it back over the pork before serving!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pour it over the pork in the slow cooker the next day and cook as directed. This makes for an easy stress-free meal!
How Long Are Leftovers Good For?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
