Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to cook pork tenderloin? Look no further than your trusty crock pot!
Slow cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot is a foolproof way to achieve tender, juicy meat every time. But how long should you cook it for?
With so many recipes and varying cook times out there, it can be confusing to know what’s best. In this article, we’ll break down the different cook times and methods for cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot, so you can confidently create a mouth-watering meal for your family and friends.
So grab your crock pot and let’s get cooking!
How Long Pork Tenderloin In Crock Pot?
The cook time for pork tenderloin in the crock pot can vary depending on the size of the meat and the temperature setting of your crock pot.
For a one-pound pork tenderloin, it typically takes 2-3 hours on low heat or 1-2 hours on high heat. However, it’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches at least 145°F for safe consumption.
If you’re cooking multiple pork tenderloins or a larger piece of meat, it may take longer to cook. Generally, you can estimate about 1 hour of cook time per pound of meat on low heat or 30 minutes per pound on high heat.
It’s also important to consider the doneness you prefer and how well your crock pot heats. Some crock pots may cook faster or slower than others, so it’s always a good idea to check the meat periodically and adjust the cook time as needed.
Preparing Your Pork Tenderloin For The Crock Pot
Before cooking your pork tenderloin in the crock pot, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that it turns out tender and flavorful.
First, trim any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat better and prevent any tough or chewy bits.
Next, season the pork tenderloin with your preferred spices or rub. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own using garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
To add extra flavor and moisture to the pork, you can also sear it in a hot skillet before placing it in the crock pot. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the pork on all sides until golden brown. This step is optional but can make a big difference in the final result.
Once your pork tenderloin is seasoned and seared (if desired), place it in the crock pot along with any additional ingredients such as vegetables, broth, or sauce. Be sure not to overcrowd the crock pot as this can affect the cooking time and temperature.
Cover the crock pot with a lid and set it to your desired temperature setting (low or high). Cook for the recommended time based on the size of your meat and check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer.
When the pork tenderloin is finished cooking, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing or shredding. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and prevent it from drying out. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
The Importance Of Choosing The Right Size Crock Pot
Choosing the right size crock pot is crucial when it comes to cooking pork tenderloin. If the crock pot is too small, the meat may not cook evenly, and if it’s too large, the meat may dry out. It’s recommended to use a crock pot that can accommodate the size of your pork tenderloin comfortably.
As a general rule of thumb, you should use 1 quart per pound of meat being cooked in a slow cooker. For example, a 3-quart crock pot can handle a 3-pound pork tenderloin. If you’re cooking for a larger group or want leftovers, it’s better to opt for a bigger crock pot rather than cramming everything into a smaller one.
It’s also worth noting that oval-shaped crock pots are more versatile for cooking larger cuts of meat like pork tenderloin. They provide more room for the meat to cook evenly and can also accommodate other ingredients like vegetables or potatoes.
Cooking On Low Vs. High Heat: Which Is Best For Pork Tenderloin?
When it comes to cooking pork tenderloin, the cooking method you choose can make a big difference in the final result. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that is best cooked quickly at a high heat. Cooking it low and slow can result in a chalky and chewy texture.
If you’re cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot, you have the option of cooking it on low heat or high heat. Low heat is ideal for longer cook times and can result in a more tender and flavorful meat. High heat, on the other hand, is best for shorter cook times and can help to sear the outside of the meat, resulting in a crispy crust.
When cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot, it’s important to keep in mind that the meat will release moisture as it cooks. This can result in a lot of liquid in the crock pot, which can dilute the flavor of your dish. To avoid this, consider using less liquid than you normally would when cooking on the stove or in the oven.
Ultimately, the choice between low heat and high heat will depend on your personal preference and the recipe you’re using. If you’re looking for a more tender and flavorful meat, low heat may be the way to go. If you’re short on time and want a crispy crust on your pork tenderloin, high heat may be the better option. Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that your pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F for safe consumption.
How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In The Crock Pot On Low Heat
If you’re cooking a one-pound pork tenderloin in the crock pot on low heat, it typically takes about 2-3 hours to cook. This method is recommended to avoid the risk of the meat drying out.
For larger pieces of meat or multiple pork tenderloins, you can estimate about 1 hour of cook time per pound of meat on low heat. Keep in mind that the size and width of the meat, as well as the age and type of your crock pot, can also affect the cook time.
To ensure that the pork tenderloin is fully cooked and safe to eat, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 145°F. It’s important to check periodically and adjust the cook time as needed, since different crock pots may cook at different rates.
How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In The Crock Pot On High Heat
When cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot on high heat, it’s important to keep a close eye on the meat to avoid overcooking and drying it out. As mentioned earlier, a one-pound pork tenderloin typically takes 1-2 hours to cook on high heat.
However, if you’re short on time and need to cook the meat faster, you can try searing the pork tenderloin in a pan with some oil before placing it in the crock pot. This will help lock in the juices and speed up the cooking process.
It’s important to note that cooking pork on high heat can be riskier than cooking on low heat. High heat may cause the meat to cook unevenly, resulting in dry, tough pork. Additionally, cooking pork at high temperatures may increase the risk of foodborne illness if the internal temperature of the meat doesn’t reach 145°F.
If you do choose to cook your pork tenderloin on high heat, be sure to monitor it closely and use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. You may also want to add some liquid or sauce to the crock pot to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
In general, it’s best to stick with low heat when cooking pork tenderloin in the crock pot for optimal results. However, if you’re short on time and need to cook the meat faster, high heat can be an option as long as you take precautions and monitor the cooking process closely.
Tips For Ensuring Tender And Juicy Pork Tenderloin Every Time
Cooking pork tenderloin in a crock pot can be a great way to achieve tender and juicy meat, but there are some tips to keep in mind to ensure the best results:
1. Choose the right cut of meat: Use pork tenderloin, not pork loin. Pork tenderloin is a more tender and smaller cut of meat that cooks faster and more evenly in a crock pot.
2. Trim the meat: Remove and discard the silver skin and excess fat from the pork tenderloin before cooking. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming chewy or tough.
3. Use an instant-read thermometer: To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Cook the meat to at least 145°F for safe consumption.
4. Add some liquid: Adding a little liquid, such as beef stock or apple cider vinegar, can help keep the pork tenderloin juicy and flavorful. You can deglaze the searing pan with some beef stock and add it to the crock pot or pour a little apple cider vinegar over the pork before cooking.
5. Sear the meat first: Taking the time to sear the pork tenderloin before cooking it in the crock pot can help seal in the juices and add flavor. Sear it for about 6 minutes before placing it in the crock pot.
6. Let it rest before slicing: After cooking, let your pork tenderloin rest for about 45 minutes before slicing it. This will allow the juices to reflow in the meat and make it extra tender.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your pork tenderloin comes out perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy every time you make it in your crock pot.
