This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and savory delight! The juicy pork is cooked slowly with pineapple chunks, creating a tasty blend of flavors. Yum!
I love how this dish practically cooks itself! Just throw everything in the slow cooker, and a few hours later, you’ve got a meal that feels special, but is super simple.
Enjoy it with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner. Your family will think you spent all day in the kitchen! đŸ˜‰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star ingredient! For a leaner option, you can use a pork tenderloin, but it may cook faster. Modify cooking time accordingly! If you’re watching fats, try a boneless pork chop instead.
Pineapple Chunks: The canned pineapple gives a sweet, juicy flavor. If fresh pineapple is available, use it! Just cut it into chunks and mix with juice. It’ll add a fresher taste to the dish.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar balances the flavors beautifully. If you’re out, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses—about 1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar works well.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you need a gluten-free option, choose a tamari or coconut aminos instead, which give a similar flavor without gluten.
Ginger: Ground ginger is convenient, but fresh ginger provides a brighter flavor. Use a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger if you prefer that fresh kick!
How Do I Ensure the Pork Is Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender pork is all in the slow cooking process. Here are a few tips to keep it juicy:
- Cook on low heat. This gentle cooking allows the pork to become tender as it slowly breaks down the connective tissues.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and can affect cooking time.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist when sliced.
If you have a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F ensures a perfectly cooked pork loin!
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin roast
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 6 to 8 hours in the slow cooker. So, you can set it in the morning and come back to a fantastic meal ready for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps add flavor and prevents the pork from sticking directly to the bottom.
2. Add the Pork:
Now, take your pork loin roast and place it right on top of the sliced onions. This way, the juices from the pork will infuse the onions and add even more flavor.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the pineapple chunks (with juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir well until combined. This delicious sauce will be the star of the dish!
4. Pour the Sauce:
Pour your pineapple mixture evenly over the pork loin, making sure it’s well coated. This will ensure the pork absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The low and slow cooking is key to making the pork tender and juicy!
6. Rest the Meat:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period helps keep the juicy goodness inside.
7. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir this into the liquid remaining in the slow cooker, and let it cook on high for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
8. Serve:
Slice the pork loin and serve it with the pineapple sauce generously spooned on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy!
Enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish for a delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Can I Use Frozen Pork Loin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, it’s best to thaw the pork loin completely before cooking for even results. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with regular white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses. This will replicate the flavor and moisture of brown sugar quite well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra juice to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into even pieces, so they cook nicely along with the pork!
