This Crock Pot Pork Loin is super simple to make and is cooked slowly for flavors that really pop! It gets tender while sitting in a tasty gravy that pairs perfectly.
It’s great for busy days since you just set it and forget it. I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy gravy. Your family will want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: The star of the dish! It’s tender and juicy. If you can’t find pork loin, pork shoulder works as a great substitute. Just note that it may take a bit longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: This is used for searing the pork. If you’re out of olive oil, any cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil will do just fine.
Spices: Garlic powder, thyme, and paprika add depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh herbs, feel free to use fresh thyme and minced garlic—just adjust the amounts slightly since fresh herbs can be stronger.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps things light. You can swap it out for vegetable broth or beef broth based on your preference.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds umami. If you need a substitute, soy sauce or even balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch, but they will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Make Juicy Pork Loin in My Crock Pot?
Making juicy pork loin comes down to proper preparation and cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by seasoning the pork well with the spice mix; this builds great flavor.
- Searing the pork in a skillet is a crucial step. It locks in moisture and enhances the taste. If you skip this, don’t worry, but your pork will be less flavorful.
- Layer the sliced onions underneath the pork in the crock pot; they’ll add flavor and moisture as it cooks.
- Cooking it low and slow is key! It breaks down the meat and keeps it juicy. If you’re short on time, the high setting works, but keep an eye on it.
Once finished, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps in the juices, giving you that tender bite!
How to Make Crock Pot Pork Loin with Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lb pork loin roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crock Pot Pork Loin takes about 10-15 minutes for prep, plus cooking time of 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. It’s perfect for setting in the morning and coming back to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika. This blend will give your pork all the flavor it needs!
2. Season the Pork Loin:
Rub the spice mix over the entire surface of the pork loin, ensuring it’s well covered. This is where the flavor starts!
3. Sear the Pork (Optional):
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork loin for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
4. Set Up the Crock Pot:
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of your crock pot. This will create a tasty base for your pork to cook on and absorb flavors.
5. Add the Pork and Liquids:
Put the seared pork loin on top of the onions. Then pour the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce over the pork, ensuring it’s well-covered in flavor.
6. Cook the Pork:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and is nice and tender.
7. Rest the Pork:
Once cooked, transfer the pork loin to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
8. Make the Gravy:
Pour the juices from the crock pot into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. This will be the base for your gravy.
9. Thicken the Gravy:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Slowly whisk this into the simmering juices. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
10. Serve the Dish:
Slice the pork loin and arrange it on plates. Drizzle the thickened gravy over the pork. This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans!
Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal with your loved ones. It’s sure to warm up your day!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It’s best to thaw the pork in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Can I Adjust the Cooking Time?
If you’re short on time, you can set the crock pot on HIGH for 3-4 hours. However, for the most tender results, the LOW setting for 6-8 hours is recommended. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F.
What Should I Do with Leftover Gravy?
Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and seasoning the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just plug in your crock pot in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day!