What is the safe internal temperature for pork tenderloin?

The safe internal temperature for pork tenderloin is 145°F as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. This temperature ensures the pork is safe to eat while remaining juicy. Let the meat rest for 10 minutes after cooking, the temperature will rise a few degrees as juices redistribute throughout the tenderloin.

Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?

No, pork loin and pork tenderloin are different cuts that cook differently. Pork loin is thicker and wider, requiring nearly twice the cooking time. If you substitute pork loin in this Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin recipe, you'll end up with either undercooked meat or a completely different result. Stick with tenderloin for the timing specified.

Should I sear pork tenderloin before slow cooking?

Searing is optional but adds flavor. I've tested this recipe both ways, searing creates a caramelized exterior and locks in moisture before the low and slow cooking begins. If you're short on time, skip it. The honey garlic sauce still builds plenty of flavor during the 5-6 hours of cooking in your slow cooker or crockpot.

How long does pork tenderloin take in the slow cooker?

Pork tenderloin takes 5-6 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in a slow cooker. Start checking at the minimum time using a meat thermometer, overcooked tenderloin turns dry and stringy. The low and slow cooking method gives you more flexibility, while HIGH requires closer attention to avoid drying out the lean meat.

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin

Name: Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pork tenderloin (1-1.5 lbs, about 450-680g); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ cup honey; ¼ cup soy sauce; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon cold water

Description

This Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin cooks low and slow in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and apple cider vinegar. The lean tenderloin stays juicy with just 10 minutes of prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pork tenderloin (1-1.5 lbs, about 450-680g)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

½ cup honey

¼ cup soy sauce

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

½ cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon cold water

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Instructions

1. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth in a medium bowl until combined.

2. Pat pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika all over the surface.

3. Place seasoned pork in slow cooker. Pour honey garlic sauce over the top.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

5. Transfer pork to cutting board and rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

6. Whisk cornstarch mixed with cold water into sauce in slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 5 minutes until thickened.

7. Slice pork into medallions and serve with thickened sauce spooned over top.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat at 300°F for 15 minutes.

Don’t lift the lid during cooking, each peek releases heat and adds 20-30 minutes to cook time.

Pull the pork at 145°F internal temperature for best results; it will continue cooking slightly as it rests.

Make sure you’re using pork tenderloin, not pork loin, they cook very differently.

For thicker sauce, let it reduce on HIGH for an additional 5-10 minutes after adding cornstarch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 17 g
Sodium: 750 mg
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg