This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and tangy dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss the pork and pineapple in your slow cooker, and let it work its magic for a tender, flavorful meal.
Who knew that a little pineapple could make such a tasty difference? I love serving this over rice to soak up all the yummy juices. It’s like a tropical getaway on my dinner plate! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This cut is great for slow cooking since it stays tender and juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try chicken or turkey breast. Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster!
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple can be a fantastic substitute if you prefer. It adds a fresher taste. If you’re watching sugar intake, use unsweetened pineapple chunks or cut back on the brown sugar and honey.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice for this recipe to keep the salt levels in check. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. I often use tamari since it has a nice flavor, too.
Brown Sugar & Honey: If you want a different sweetness, coconut sugar or maple syrup can work well. Just remember that the flavor will shift slightly, but it’s still delicious!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on My Pork Loin?
Searing your pork loin might seem tricky, but it’s essential for flavor! It locks in juices and adds a beautiful color. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Generously season the pork with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Place the pork in the skillet and sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if necessary.
- Once done, let it rest briefly before transferring it to the slow cooker. This helps keep the juices inside when you slice it.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Loin:
- 2-3 lbs pork loin
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you’ll have time to relax while it transforms into a mouthwatering meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Loin:
Begin by generously seasoning your pork loin with salt and pepper. This step is important for enhancing the flavor of the meat, so don’t skip it!
2. Sear the Pork Loin:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork loin in the skillet and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This extra step really adds depth to the flavor!
3. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pork is searing, grab a bowl and mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, creating a sweet and tangy sauce.
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Once the pork is seared, place it in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s nicely coated. Then, add the drained pineapple chunks around the pork in the slow cooker.
5. Cook the Pork:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep the juices in and makes slicing easier.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the sliced pork loin with the pineapple chunks and drizzle some of the sauce over the top. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork loin with pork shoulder or tenderloin, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary. If you use pork shoulder, you may want to cook it a bit longer for the best tenderness. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety.
What If I Can’t Find Pineapple Chunks?
No worries! You can use fresh pineapple cut into chunks or crushed pineapple instead. Just make sure to adjust the liquid content slightly since crushed pineapple will add more juice. You can use the same amount of reserved juice from the can for the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! The flavors actually improve if made ahead. You can prepare the sauce and sear the pork a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Just combine them in the slow cooker and cook when you’re ready. Leftovers are great refrigerated for up to 3 days!
How Should I Store Leftover Pineapple Pork Loin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
