This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and juicy dish that cooks itself while you relax! The tender pork paired with pineapple creates a delightful flavor combo.
It’s a real treat to come home to a warm meal that smells amazing. Plus, the cleanup is easy-peasy! I love serving it over rice to soak up all that tasty sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: Choose a nice 2 to 3 pounds pork loin for this dish. You can also substitute with pork tenderloin or shoulder if you prefer a different cut. Just remember that cooking times may vary!
Crushed Pineapple: The crushed pineapple is a star here, providing sweetness and moisture. If fresh pineapple is available, you can use it instead. Just chop it up and add a splash of juice!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. You could even use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to cut back on salt.
Brown Sugar: This brings sweetness and depth. If you’re out of brown sugar, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses will do the trick, or honey for a completely different flavor twist.
Honey: Honey adds a nice glaze and sweetness. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a change.
How Do I Perfectly Sear the Pork Loin?
Searing your pork loin before slow cooking is optional but can really elevate your dish. This step creates a delicious crust that adds extra flavor to the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and black pepper.
- Place the pork loin in the skillet. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown.
- Make sure not to move it too much; that helps with browning.
- After searing, place it into the slow cooker and pour over the pineapple mixture.
This simple step can make all the difference in taste! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep and cooking on low will take 6-8 hours, or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’s great to set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork (Optional):
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the pork loin with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork loin in the skillet, searing it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step gives a nice flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (be sure to include the juice), soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Mix everything together until the sugar is dissolved and it’s well combined.
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Next, take your seared pork loin and place it in the slow cooker. Pour the pineapple mixture over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated. This combination will create a tasty sauce as it cooks!
4. Slow Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is tender and fully cooked through.
5. Slice and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute for a juicier slice. After resting, slice the pork loin, and serve it with the delicious pineapple sauce spooned over the top.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
As a final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. Now you’re all set to enjoy your Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin. Delicious!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor. Simply chop it into small pieces and add it with juice from half of the pineapple. This will provide a fresh twist while still keeping the dish moist!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari (for a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos, which is sweeter and less salty. You could also make a homemade version using equal parts beef broth and balsamic vinegar if you want to experiment a bit!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the pork with sauce in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Cook This Recipe on High Heat for Less Time?
Yes, cooking on high is a great option for a quicker meal! It will take about 3-4 hours on high heat. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature of the pork; it should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
