Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a half pork loin in your crock pot? Look no further!
Slow cooker pork loin is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. With the right cut of pork and a few key steps, you can have a tender and juicy pork roast that’s full of flavor.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cooking half pork loin in your crock pot, including the best cuts of pork, seasoning tips, and cooking times.
So grab your crock pot and let’s get started!
How To Cook Half Pork Loin In Crock Pot?
First, it’s important to choose the right cut of pork for your crock pot. While this recipe can work with different cuts, we recommend using pork loin for the best results.
To prepare your pork loin, start by seasoning it with a simple spice mix of salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and paprika. This will add extra flavor to your roast.
Next, sear the pork loin in a skillet to give it a nice golden brown crust. This step is crucial for developing flavor and texture in your pork roast.
Once your pork loin is seared, place it in the bottom of your crock pot and add some liquid to help keep it moist during cooking. You can use chicken broth or even just water.
Cook your half pork loin on low for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your pork loin and your crock pot, so be sure to check it periodically with an instant-read thermometer.
Once your pork loin is cooked, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat and make it even more tender and flavorful.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork
When it comes to choosing the right cut of pork for your crock pot, not all cuts are created equal. While this recipe can work with different cuts, we recommend using pork loin for the best results.
Pork loin is a lean cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking. It has less fat than other cuts, which means it won’t become more tender the longer it cooks. This is important to keep in mind when slow cooking pork, as overcooking can result in dry and tough meat.
If you’re looking for a cut of pork with more fat, pork belly is a great option. It’s high in fat, making it a versatile and delicious cut of meat. However, if you’re worried about the amount of fat, you can always skim some of it away while cooking.
For the best pulled pork, we recommend using a front shoulder cut of pork. This includes cuts like Pork Butt or Boston Butt and Pork Shoulder or Picnic Roast. These cuts have more fat marbling, which means more flavor in your pulled pork.
When choosing your cut of pork, make sure to look for terms like Pork Butt or Shoulder at the store. If you’re unsure which cut to choose, don’t hesitate to ask your local butcher for recommendations.
Preparing The Pork Loin For The Crock Pot
Preparing the pork loin for the crock pot is a crucial step in ensuring that your roast turns out tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
1. Trim any visible fat from the pork loin using a sharp knife. This will help prevent your roast from becoming too greasy during cooking.
2. Season the pork loin with a simple spice mix of salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the spices all over the surface of the meat to ensure that it’s evenly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork loin on all sides until it has a nice golden brown crust. This will help lock in the juices and add extra flavor to your roast.
4. Once your pork loin is seared, transfer it to the bottom of your crock pot. You can also add sliced onions or other vegetables at this point if you’d like.
5. Add some liquid to the crock pot to help keep your pork loin moist during cooking. You can use chicken broth, apple juice, or even just water.
6. Cover the crock pot and cook your half pork loin on low for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Be sure to check it periodically with an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
7. Once your pork loin is cooked, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat and make it even more tender and flavorful.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious and juicy half pork loin in your crock pot with minimal effort.
Seasoning Tips For Flavorful Pork
To add even more flavor to your half pork loin, consider using a marinade or rub before cooking. For example, you can mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Italian seasoning to create a tasty marinade. Simply coat your pork loin in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Alternatively, you can create a spice rub using your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the mixture all over your pork loin, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Another tip for adding flavor to your half pork loin is to use pan drippings to make a delicious gravy. After searing your pork loin, deglaze the pan with some chicken broth or water and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour this liquid into your crock pot along with your pork loin for extra flavor.
By following these seasoning tips, you can ensure that your half pork loin is flavorful and delicious when cooked in a crock pot. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades to find your favorite combination.
Cooking Times And Temperatures
When cooking a half pork loin in a crock pot, it’s important to pay attention to the cooking times and temperatures to ensure that your pork is cooked to perfection. The USDA guidelines state that pork can be safely consumed when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F with a resting time of three minutes, however, anywhere from 145-160°F is considered acceptable.
To check the temperature of your pork loin, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. Remember that your pork loin will increase in temperature anywhere from 5-10 degrees as it rests, so it’s recommended to remove your pork from the crock pot as soon as it hits 145°F.
Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your pork loin and your crock pot. For a half pork loin, we recommend cooking it on low for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you’re using a larger cut of meat like a pork shoulder, you’ll need to cook it on low for 10 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
It’s also important not to overcook your pork loin as it can become dry and tough. To avoid this, be sure to check the internal temperature periodically with an instant-read thermometer and remove it from the crock pot as soon as it reaches the desired temperature.
By following these cooking times and temperatures, you can ensure that your half pork loin in a crock pot is cooked to perfection every time.
Checking For Doneness And Serving Suggestions
When checking for doneness, it’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that your pork loin has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading.
If you prefer your pork loin to be slightly pink in the middle, you can remove it from the crock pot when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. The carryover cooking will bring the temperature up to a safe level while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
When serving your half pork loin, you can slice it into thin pieces and drizzle it with any juices or sauce that may have accumulated in the crock pot. This will add extra flavor and moisture to your pork loin.
You can also serve your pork loin with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with your meal planning.