If you’re craving a comforting dish that effortlessly combines the warmth of home-cooked flavors with a touch of sweet and savory magic, you’re going to adore this Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin Recipe. Imagine tender pork infused with the cozy aroma of onions and the nostalgic sweetness of apple pie filling, slow-cooked to perfection so every bite melts in your mouth. It’s like apple pie got a savory best friend, and they teamed up to create a meal that’s perfect for any day of the week or a special family gathering. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to your trusty slow cooker doing most of the work while you relax or get other things done.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible color contrast. These components work in harmony to create a dish that’s both hearty and inviting.
- 3 lb pork tenderloin: The star of the show, lean and tender, perfect for soaking up all the juicy flavors.
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when slow-cooked, acting as a flavorful bed for the pork.
- 15 oz can of apple pie filling: Brings a delightful fruity sweetness and a hint of cinnamon that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard: Provides a tangy kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami punch that deepens the overall taste profile.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Gives a subtle caramelized sweetness that enhances the apple notes.
How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Base
Begin by slicing your yellow onion into thin rings or half-moons. Spread these evenly across the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. This layer is the secret to achieving that tender, aromatic base that will keep your pork moist and infused with flavor throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Add the Pork Tenderloin
Place the whole pork tenderloin right on top of the onion bed. This positioning allows the pork to absorb the sweetness from the onions and keeps it elevated so it cooks evenly without sitting in too much liquid.
Step 3: Layer on the Flavor
Next, pour the apple pie filling, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar all over the tenderloin. Make sure to spread these ingredients evenly so the pork is well-coated and bathed in a medley of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will meld beautifully while cooking.
Step 4: Set and Forget
Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or on HIGH for about 4 hours. The goal is to reach that perfect fork-tender texture where the pork slices effortlessly and the apple-onion mixture transforms into a luscious sauce.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once your pork tenderloin is perfectly cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and slice it into thick, juicy pieces. Spoon the warm apple and onion sauce from the Crockpot over the top to bring everything together into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the flavor and presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme. Their bright green color adds a lovely visual contrast and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of toasted pecans can also provide a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft textures.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, which soak up every drop of that decadent apple and onion sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pork tenderloin over a bed of cooked quinoa or wild rice for added texture and a nutty flavor. Alternatively, try stuffing the sliced pork into warm dinner rolls or soft tortillas with a bit of sauce and your favorite toppings for a comforting sandwich or wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pork and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain the freshest flavors and prevent any unwanted moisture buildup.
Freezing
If you want to save the leftovers for longer, this recipe freezes well. Portion the pork and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pork and sauce in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain moisture during reheating so your pork stays tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?
While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can use pork loin or even boneless pork chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since thicker cuts may require longer to become tender.
Is it necessary to use apple pie filling or can I substitute fresh apples?
Apple pie filling offers a convenient blend of sweet apples and spices that enrich the dish. If you prefer fresh apples, slice them thinly and consider adding cinnamon and a bit of sugar to mimic the flavor, but be mindful it might change the sauce consistency slightly.
Can I prepare this recipe in the morning and have it ready for dinner?
Absolutely! Setting your slow cooker on LOW for 7 to 8 hours is perfect for starting early in the day and enjoying a delicious meal come dinner time without any hassle.
Does the dish taste very sweet because of the apple pie filling?
The sweetness from the apple pie filling is balanced perfectly by the tangy mustard, savory Worcestershire sauce, and earthy onions, making the overall flavor complex and well-rounded rather than overly sweet.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle it without overcrowding, which might affect cooking times and texture. It’s best to use a 7-quart or larger slow cooker if doubling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a warm, aromatic dish that feels both special and homey, and this Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin Recipe delivers just that every time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—perfect for sharing with family, impressing friends, or treating yourself to a little comfort food magic. So dust off your slow cooker and give this crowd-pleaser a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (HIGH) or 7-8 hours (LOW)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (HIGH) or 7 hours 10 minutes (LOW)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Apple Pie Pork Tenderloin is a sweet and savory dish that combines tender pork with rich apple pie filling and a blend of flavorful condiments. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork becomes juicy and infused with the warm, comforting flavors of apple, onion, mustard, and brown sugar, making it an easy and delicious meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
- 15 oz can of apple pie filling
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Onion Base: Slice the large yellow onion evenly and spread it across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the pork.
- Place the Pork: Lay the 3 lb pork tenderloin directly on top of the sliced onions, ensuring it rests evenly.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour the apple pie filling over the pork tenderloin, then add yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, spreading them evenly to coat the meat thoroughly.
- Slow Cook the Pork: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW setting for 7 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and can be easily sliced with a fork.
- Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the pork tenderloin, slice it, and serve topped with the apple and onion sauce from the slow cooker. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Notes
- For best flavor, cook on LOW for a slow, tender finish.
- You can substitute apple pie filling with fresh apples and a bit of cinnamon for a less sweet version.
- Make sure the pork is completely cooked and tender before slicing for best texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
