This Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a sweet and savory dish that cooks gently all day. The juicy pork pairs perfectly with pineapple for a tropical touch!
You’ll love how simple it is! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s like having a mini-vacation on your dinner plate! 🌴
I love serving this dish over rice or with steamed veggies. It’s a dinner that feels fancy but is super easy to make—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This lean cut stays tender well during the slow cooking process. If you prefer, you can use pork tenderloin or even chicken breast for a lighter option.
Pineapple: Canned pineapple is convenient and sweet. If you have fresh pineapple, feel free to substitute it. Just make sure to cut it small enough so it cooks evenly!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you want less sodium, choose low-sodium soy sauce.
Brown Sugar: If you’re looking to cut sugar, try using honey or maple syrup instead. Adjust the amount according to taste since these sweeteners may be sweeter.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger can be used if you have it. Just use about a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a more vibrant flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture with Slow Cooking?
Slow cooking is all about allowing flavors to meld while keeping meats tender. Here’s how to ensure you get the best texture:
- Season the meat well at the start. It helps in building flavor during cooking.
- Keep the lid on while cooking. This helps to maintain moisture and heat.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking. It allows the juices to redistribute.
- If thickening sauce, add cornstarch slurry towards the end. Cooking it for just 10-15 minutes ensures it’s smooth and not lumpy.
By following these tips, your slow cooker pork loin will come out juicy and delicious every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Loin:
Start by seasoning the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step enhances the meat’s flavor during cooking.
2. Add Onions:
Take your slow cooker and place the sliced onions at the bottom. This creates a nice bed for the pork and adds sweetness.
3. Place the Pork Loin:
Now, put the seasoned pork loin right on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the pineapple chunks (along with their juice), the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and optional ground ginger. Make sure to stir well to mix all the flavors.
5. Pour Over the Pork:
Carefully pour the flavorful pineapple mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker, making sure to cover the meat as best as you can.
6. Start Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is to make the pork tender and fully cooked.
7. Rest the Pork:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker, turn the heat to high, and let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until thickened.
9. Serve the Dish:
Slice the pork loin into pieces and serve it with the delicious pineapple sauce spooned over the top. It’s perfect over rice or alongside vegetables!
10. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley or green onions over the dish for a fresh finish before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy slow cooker pineapple pork loin! Perfect for any family dinner or gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork loin is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can substitute it with pork tenderloin or even chicken breast. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken may cook faster.
Can I Make This Recipe with Fresh Pineapple?
Yes! Fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned. Cut it into small chunks, and if you have fresh pineapple juice, you can use that as well for even more flavor in the sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
What Can I Serve with Pineapple Pork Loin?
This dish pairs beautifully with white or brown rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with noodles or even on a bed of quinoa for a delicious meal!
