Looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare? This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is just the ticket! Juicy, tender pork loin infused with sweet pineapple and savory garlic, simmered to perfection—this recipe is sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients :
2-3 lbs pork loin, trimmed of excess fat
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 can (23.5 oz) pineapple chunks with juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork: Trim any excess fat from the pork loin and generously season it with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Pork: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-4 minutes per side. This helps lock in the flavor and adds a nice crust to the pork.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the browned pork loin to your slow cooker. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top, then pour in the soy sauce. Add the pineapple chunks and their juice, and evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the pork.
- Cook:
For a pork loin you can slice, cook on low for 4-6 hours.
For a tender, shredded pork, cook on low for 8-10 hours, occasionally basting the pork with the cooking juices.
- Shred (Optional): If you prefer shredded pork, use two forks to pull the pork apart after the longer cooking time. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and let it absorb more flavor by cooking on low for an additional hour.
Tips and Variations
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the brown sugar to 1/4 cup or swap it out for honey for a more subtle sweetness.
Add Heat: For a little spice, add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Different Cuts of Pork: While pork loin works great for this recipe, you can also use pork shoulder for an even more tender, pull-apart result.
Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer, use fresh pineapple instead of canned. You’ll need about 2 cups of pineapple chunks and 1/2 cup of fresh pineapple juice.
Veggies Add-In: Want to make it a one-pot meal? Add in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or carrots during the last two hours of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: To freeze, allow the pork to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet or microwave.
Reheat: To reheat, place the pork in a covered skillet with some of the leftover cooking juices over medium heat until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes! You can use the sauté function to brown the pork first. Then cook on high pressure for 40 minutes with a natural release. It will be just as tender and flavorful.
Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin?
You can, but pork tenderloin cooks faster and may not need as long in the slow cooker. Check for doneness after 3-4 hours on low to avoid overcooking.
Do I need to brown the pork first?
Browning the pork adds flavor and texture but isn’t strictly necessary. You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry, though the end result may not be as rich.
What should I serve with Pineapple Pork Loin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. The sweet and savory flavors also go great with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
Enjoy the mouthwatering balance of sweetness and savoriness in every bite of this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin! Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a busy weeknight dinner, it’s bound to impress.