This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a tasty mix of sweet and savory. The tender pork cooks low and slow with juicy pineapples, creating a mouthwatering meal!
The best part? You can just set it and forget it! I love coming home to a delicious aroma and a dinner that’s practically ready. Perfect for busy days! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: The star of our dish! A 2 to 3-pound pork loin is perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find pork loin, pork tenderloin or pork shoulder also work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Pineapple: Pineapple chunks provide sweetness and flavor. If fresh pineapple is available, you can chop it up and use it instead of canned. Just add a bit more juice or water for extra moisture.
Soy Sauce: This gives the dish a savory depth. You can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option or use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier swap, honey or maple syrup can be used in equal amounts.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger is great if you have it! Just grate about a tablespoon to replace the ground ginger. The fresh taste is wonderful.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cook on Pork Loin?
Cooking pork loin in a slow cooker is simple, but timing is crucial! Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly tender:
- Place onions at the bottom to help keep the pork elevated and add flavor.
- Pour the sauce over the pork and let it marinate in those delicious juices.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours for the best tenderness. If short on time, the high setting for 3-4 hours works too.
- Let the pork rest after cooking. This helps all the juices settle before slicing.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a juicy, tender pork loin ready for dinner!
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small onion, sliced
For Thickening (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you let the slow cooker do the work! You can cook it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Just remember to let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing it up.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This adds flavor and keeps the pork elevated, allowing it to cook evenly.
2. Make the Saucy Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the juice from the can of pineapple (don’t drain it!), soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and blended.
3. Add the Pork:
Now, take the pork loin and place it right on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Don’t be shy; make sure it’s resting comfortably on those onions!
4. Pour It All On:
Next, pour the pineapple chunks (with their juice) and the sauce over the pork loin. Make sure the pork is well covered for maximum flavor. Yum!
5. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is super tender and easy to shred.
6. Rest & Slice:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork loin and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes to lock in those juices before slicing it into delicious pieces.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like your sauce thicker, pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, then stir it into the saucepan. Heat it until thickened, stirring constantly.
8. Serve It Up:
Finally, serve the sliced pork topped with that tasty pineapple sauce. Garnish with some fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a bright finish. Enjoy with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork loin is ideal for this recipe, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork shoulder. Just be aware that cooking times might vary with different cuts. Pork shoulder may take longer to become tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple will add a brighter flavor to the dish. Just chop it into chunks and use it in the same way as the canned pineapple. You might want to add a bit more juice or water for moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce. You can also use a spicy soy sauce for an extra kick!
