why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is a fantastic dish that brings together the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple and pork. Cooking it in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. The meat becomes tender and juicy, infused with the rich flavors of the sauce. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
how to make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 pound boneless pork loin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 20 ounces canned pineapple (chunks and juice)
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic (minced, or 1 teaspoon granulated garlic)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (optional)
- Sliced green onions (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the pork loin with salt and pepper.
- Add the pork loin to the warm skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until light golden brown.
- Place the pork loin into the bottom of the slow cooker with the fat side facing up.
- Add the pineapple pieces and juice around the pork.
- Pour soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and orange zest into the slow cooker and cover.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the meat from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes if slicing or shred with two forks in the slow cooker if shredding.
- Serve with optional green onions and enjoy.
how to serve Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Serve the Pineapple Pork Loin with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the sauce. You can also add a side of vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal. For extra flavor, garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
how to store Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Store any leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or stovetop.
tips to make Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
- Make sure to sear the pork loin properly for a deeper flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.
- If you love garlic, feel free to add more than the recipe suggests.
- Don’t skip the resting time before slicing; it helps the juices redistribute.
variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the slow cooker for a complete meal in one pot. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use a pork shoulder or pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple works well too! Make sure to use the same amount of juice to keep the sauce flavorful.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you can substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative or use coconut aminos.
Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
Ingredients
Pork and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 pounds boneless pork loin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce Ingredients
- 20 ounces canned pineapple (chunks and juice)
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic (minced, or 1 teaspoon granulated garlic)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (optional) Adds extra flavor, optional
- sliced green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the pork loin with salt and pepper.
- Add the pork loin to the warm skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until light golden brown.
- Place the pork loin into the bottom of the slow cooker with the fat side facing up.
- Add the pineapple pieces and juice around the pork.
- Pour soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and orange zest into the slow cooker and cover.
Cooking
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the meat from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes if slicing, or shred with two forks in the slow cooker if shredding.
Serving
- Serve with sliced green onions if desired, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles to soak up the sauce.