Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

This Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss. The meat simmers slowly in a rich onion gravy until it is tender and juicy with plenty of flavor. It's a no-fail dish that feels like a special occasion but comes together with minimal effort.

I started making this recipe after a hectic day when I wanted dinner done without standing over the stove. Now it is a go to whenever I want something hearty and satisfying with little cleanup.

Ingredients

• Onion: the bed for the pork that adds sweetness and depth to the gravy, choose firm, fresh onions for the best flavor
• Pork tenderloins: look for fresh, evenly sized tenderloins for even cooking, you can use one or two depending on your needs
• Low sodium beef broth: provides rich flavor while controlling salt levels in the dish
• Packet of pork gravy mix: quick and reliable way to thicken and season the sauce, if unavailable try au jus mix or beef gravy packet
• Salted butter: real butter adds richness to both the pork and the gravy of the dish
• Olive oil: for searing the meat and developing flavor before slow cooking
• Salt and pepper: simple seasoning to bring out the natural taste of the pork

Instructions

Sauté the Onions:

Spray a six or eight quart slow cooker with cooking spray and add the sliced onions to the bottom. These onions will cook down and flavor both the pork and the gravy so don't skip this layer.

Pat and Season the Pork:

Dry the pork tenderloins well with paper towels so they brown better. Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the tenderloins for a simple but effective seasoning.

Sear the Pork:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Sear each pork tenderloin on all sides, turning carefully with tongs, until evenly browned. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.

Transfer to Slow Cooker:

Place the seared pork on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth carefully around the tenderloins so it creates a flavorful cooking liquid without washing off seasoning.

Add Gravy Mix and Butter:

Sprinkle the pork gravy mix evenly over the tenderloins. Dot the top with slices of the salted butter. These additions build the gravy and keep the pork moist and tender during cooking.

Cook Low and Slow:

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 2 to 2 and a half hours. The pork is done when it reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit internally and the onions have softened to a rich, tender consistency.

Slice and Serve:

Once cooked, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve immediately spooning the onion gravy from the slow cooker over the meat. This creates a warm and inviting plate every time.

My favorite part of this dish is the buttery onion gravy. It reminds me of family dinners growing up where the kitchen would fill with a comforting aroma. The slow cooking releases all those rich flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Storage Tips

Cool the pork and gravy to room temperature before storing in airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to keep it moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have pork gravy mix choose beef gravy packet or au jus mix as an alternative. You can swap beef broth for chicken broth though it will slightly change the flavor profile. Butter can be replaced with ghee or a neutral oil but butter adds the richest taste.

Serving Suggestions

This pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy. Other good sides include roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, a simple salad, or macaroni and cheese. Fried apples also complement the pork with a sweet contrast.

This slow cooker pork tenderloin is an easy, comforting weeknight meal that reheats well and freezes beautifully. Serve it with mashed potatoes to soak up the buttery onion gravy.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow?

Cooking pork tenderloin on low for 2-2.5 hours yields a more tender and juicy result than a faster high-heat method.

→ Can pork be overcooked in a slow cooker?

Yes, leaving pork too long can dry it out. Follow recommended cooking times for best tenderness and moisture.

→ Can I cook pork tenderloin without liquid in the slow cooker?

Adding liquid like beef broth prevents drying and enhances flavor, so it’s recommended to include some liquid.

→ Should I brown onions before slow cooking?

Sauteing onions beforehand can deepen their flavor, but cooking them raw in the slow cooker still develops a delicious base.

→ Can other cuts of pork be used?

Pork loin works as a substitute, but adjust cooking time and ensure it reaches a safe internal temp of 145°F.

→ How can I thicken the gravy?

Use a cornstarch slurry added to the slow cooker or heat the strained juices with slurry on the stove to thicken.

→ What side dishes pair well with this pork?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salads, mac and cheese, or fried apples complement the pork's rich flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, refrigerate in airtight containers up to 3 days, or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid dryness.