Tender Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Tender Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful dish that combines pork with apple butter for a gourmet experience. This dish is perfect for any occasion and will impress your guests while also being easy to prepare. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork is tender and infused with the rich flavors of apple butter and spices. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Tender Slow Cooker Apple

This Tender Slow Cooker Apple recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous benefits. First, it takes minimal preparation time, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss. Second, the combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a hit for both kids and adults. Third, slow cooking ensures that the meat is incredibly tender, making it easy to slice and serve. Additionally, this dish is versatile, serving well with various sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to fresh salads. You can even use it as a base for a Slow Cooker Apple Dessert by pairing it with your favorite dessert toppings. Lastly, it fits within a gluten-free diet, making it suitable for a broader audience.

Ingredients for Tender Slow Cooker Apple

Gather these items:

2 pounds pork tenderloin
1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh sage or thyme, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Tender Slow Cooker Apple Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim pork tenderloin of silverskin and excess fat; pat dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Heat a skillet with a touch of oil over medium-high heat. Sear seasoned pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the apple butter, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Step 4: Place the seared pork tenderloin into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared apple butter glaze evenly over the pork.
Step 5: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Carefully remove pork from the slow cooker, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice against the grain into medallions. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh sage or thyme, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tender Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin Recipe - Tender Slow Cooker Apple - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Tender Slow Cooker Apple

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
For extra flavor, consider adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple butter glaze.
Using a meat thermometer ensures your pork is cooked to the perfect doneness.

Best Ways to Serve Tender Slow Cooker Apple

This dish can be served in multiple delightful ways. Pair your Tender Slow Cooker Apple with soft cooked apples for a sweet contrast, or use it as a filling for slow cooker apple pie filling. For a more savory approach, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Each of these options enhances the flavors of the pork and provides a well-rounded meal.

Tender Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin Recipe - Tender Slow Cooker Apple - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Tender Slow Cooker Apple

To store your Tender Slow Cooker Apple, let it cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When rewarming, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to maintain moisture and flavor. This step is especially helpful for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tender Slow Cooker Apple

What’s the secret to perfect Tender Slow Cooker Apple?

The secret to perfect Tender Slow Cooker Apple lies in the slow cooking process. Cooking the pork at lower temperatures helps break down the fibers, resulting in tender meat that absorbs the flavors of the apple butter glaze beautifully.

Can I make Tender Slow Cooker Apple ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Tender Slow Cooker Apple dish ahead of time. Simply cook it as directed, then store it in the refrigerator. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tender Slow Cooker Apple?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you don’t overcook the pork, as it can become dry. Additionally, searing the meat before slow cooking adds depth to the flavor, so don’t skip that step!

Variations of Tender Slow Cooker Apple You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can explore with Tender Slow Cooker Apple. For a sweeter dish, try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the slow cooker. You can also substitute the pork with chicken for a lighter option. Lastly, consider making a slow cooker apple compote as a side dish, which pairs beautifully with the tender pork.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cranberry Custard Pie or Gingerbread Tiramisu. If you’re looking for a savory side, try our Honey Roasted Root Vegetables.