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Tender Crockpot Pork Tenderloin Recipe Easy Homemade with Apples and Onions

tender crockpot pork tenderloin - featured image

A cozy and easy crockpot recipe featuring tender pork tenderloin cooked with apples and onions, delivering a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 medium apples, sliced (Granny Smith or Fuji recommended)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onion)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and golden, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Place half of the sautéed onions and garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Add a layer of sliced apples on top.
  4. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the apples. Cover the pork with the remaining onions and apples.
  5. Pour the apple cider (or juice) and apple cider vinegar evenly over everything. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
  7. Remove pork from the crockpot and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Stir the apples and onions gently before serving.
  8. Optional: If juices are too thin, transfer to a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.

Notes

Keep the crockpot lid closed during cooking to retain heat and moisture. Sautéing onions and garlic before adding enhances flavor but can be skipped if short on time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F for safe and juicy results. Let pork rest before slicing to retain juices. If juices are thin, simmer to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, crockpot recipe, slow cooker, apples, onions, easy dinner, comfort food, gluten-free, fall recipe