This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is juicy and full of sweet tropical flavor. The pork cooks slowly until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, and that pineapple adds a tasty zing!
I love how simple this dish is! Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I kick back. Perfect for busy days or family gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes super tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could substitute with pork tenderloin, though you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple works well too and adds a nice texture. If fresh or canned pineapple isn’t available, canned peaches or apricots in juice can be a sweet alternative!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. If sodium is a concern, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice, and it still retains the flavor.
Brown Sugar: You can use honey or maple syrup instead if you prefer a more natural sweetener. Just note that using these may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure the Pork is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork in a slow cooker is all about patience. The low-and-slow method enhances its tenderness and flavor. Here are some tips:
- Always trim excess fat from the pork loin, as too much fat can make the dish greasy.
- Use a meat thermometer! The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making it juicy when sliced.
Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have tender and flavorful pork every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
For Thickening the Sauce (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 6 to 8 hours of cooking time on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Ideally, let it cook slowly for the best flavor and tenderness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
Start by placing the pork loin in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s nestled in nicely so that it cooks evenly.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little spice. Mix these ingredients together with a whisk or spoon until everything is well blended.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker. Next, add the pineapple chunks on top of the pork, making sure they’re evenly distributed to infuse that sweet flavor as it cooks.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the pork on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cook until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. Finish Cooking:
Once the pork is cooked, take it out of the slow cooker and set it aside on a cutting board or platter.
6. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can do this step. Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining sauce and stir well. Cook on high for about 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve:
Finally, slice or shred the pork loin and serve it with the pineapple sauce poured generously over the top. This dish goes wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your delightful Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork tenderloin or shoulder; however, cooking times may vary. Tenderloin cooks faster, so check for doneness around 2-3 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low.
What If I Can’t Find Pineapple Chunks?
No worries! Fresh pineapple diced into chunks is a great substitute. You can also use canned peaches or mangoes in juice, which will provide a similar sweetness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just place the pork and sauce in the slow cooker in the morning and cook as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave or place it back in the slow cooker on low until warmed through.
