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Cozy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe with Easy Apple Cider Gravy

slow cooker pork tenderloin - featured image
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A comforting and easy slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sweet and savory apple cider gravy, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 cup apple cider (240 ml), preferably fresh or a trusted brand
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth (240 ml)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, for searing
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and half the fresh thyme. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes). Sear the pork on all sides until browned and crusty, about 2-3 minutes per side (approximately 10 minutes total).
  3. Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared pork on top. (3 minutes)
  4. In a bowl, whisk together apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and remaining thyme. Pour over the pork and onions. (5 minutes)
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
  6. Remove pork and tent with foil to rest. Pour cooking liquid into a saucepan. Over medium heat, whisk in flour (or cornstarch slurry) and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed. (10 minutes)
  7. Slice pork into medallions and spoon apple cider gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

Searing the pork is essential for flavor and juiciness. Use low heat for slow cooking to avoid drying out the pork. Rest the pork after cooking to redistribute juices. Adjust gravy thickness by simmering longer or adding broth/cider. For gluten-free gravy, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use vegetable broth and ensure mustard is dairy-free. Add sliced apples in summer for extra fruitiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker pork tenderloin, apple cider gravy, easy pork recipe, comfort food, slow cooker dinner, pork tenderloin recipe, cozy meals

Find it online: https://milaspoon.com/cozy-slow-cooker-pork-tenderloin-recipe-with-easy-apple-cider-gravy/