There’s something wonderfully comforting about a meal that practically makes itself. This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is one of those dishes—effortless to prepare yet full of flavor, with the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. It’s an easy way to enjoy a tender, juicy pork loin that cooks to perfection while you go about your day.
The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and garlic creates a harmonious, mouth-watering flavor that infuses the pork as it slowly cooks. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to a tender, fall-apart pork loin ready to be served.
This recipe is versatile and can be served in different ways—whether as a main dish with rice and vegetables or as a filling for sandwiches or tacos. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb pork loin (trimmed of excess fat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (23.5 ounces) pineapple chunks (with juice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin
- Trim the Pork Loin: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork loin. Season the pork generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Brown the Pork
- Sear the Pork: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork loin and brown it on each side for about 2-4 minutes or until golden brown. This step helps to seal in the flavor and juices.
Step 3: Add to the Slow Cooker
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned pork loin into the slow cooker.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce: Rub the minced garlic over the pork. Pour the soy sauce and the pineapple chunks with juice over the pork. Spread the brown sugar evenly on top of the pork to add sweetness and balance out the tang of the pineapple.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cook the Pork: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the pork on low for 4-6 hours for a tender pork loin that can still be sliced. If you prefer the pork to be very soft and shreddable, cook it on low for 8-10 hours.
- Tip for Extra Moisture: During the slow cooking, occasionally lift the lid and ladle the juices over the pork to keep it moist.
Step 5: Shred and Serve (Optional)
- Shred the Pork: If you want a shredded version, remove the pork after it’s fully cooked, and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for an additional 1 hour to soak up the juices.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the slow-cooked pork loin as a main dish with steamed rice or roasted vegetables. Alternatively, use the shredded pork as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or even on a salad.
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Pork Loin:
- Customize the Flavor: If you prefer a more savory taste, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly. For a spicier kick, add a bit of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker.
- Tender Shredded Pork: For the best shredded pork, ensure it’s cooked long enough to break down the fibers of the meat. The longer cooking time on low allows the pork to absorb all the flavors and makes it tender enough to shred easily.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin:
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavorful and Tender: The pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it cooks in its own juices mixed with pineapple, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Versatile: This dish can be served in various ways—whether you like it sliced or shredded, in tacos, sandwiches, or as a main dish with sides.
- Effortless Cleanup: With only one pan to clean (and a slow cooker insert), this meal is a breeze to make and clean up afterward.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or using the shredded version for tacos or sandwiches, this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. The sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and garlic meld together perfectly, making this meal one you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this crowd-pleasing recipe, and let your slow cooker do the hard work for you!