Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin With Apples

Here’s a delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples—a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3-4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (preferably a firm variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pork tenderloins:

• Season the pork tenderloins with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.

1. Sear the pork (optional):

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloins for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

1. Add to slow cooker:

• Place the seared (or raw) pork tenderloins in the slow cooker.

1. Prepare the sauce:

• In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chicken broth, apple cider (or apple juice), and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over the pork tenderloins in the slow cooker.

1. Add apples and onions:

• Arrange the sliced apples, onion, and minced garlic around the pork in the slow cooker.

1. Cook:

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

1. Thicken the sauce (optional):

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork tenderloins and apples from the slow cooker. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker and cook on high for 10-15 minutes, until thickened.

1. Serve:

• Slice or shred the pork tenderloins and serve with the apples and onions. Spoon some of the sauce over the top.

Tip:

Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The apples and pork pair beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples—a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress!