This easy slow cooker pork loin roast is just what you need for a tasty dinner! With simple spices and a few veggies, it cooks to perfection while you’re busy with other things.
Let’s face it, coming home to a delicious meal ready and waiting is the best feeling ever. I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal everyone enjoys! 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Roast: This cut is lean and cooks well in a slow cooker. If you’re looking for substitutions, a pork shoulder can work too, but it has more fat, which can result in a richer flavor.
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for searing, but any cooking oil will do. Canola or avocado oil are great alternatives if you prefer something different.
Spices: The spice mix is key to flavor. If you’re out of thyme, try rosemary or Italian seasoning. Don’t skip the paprika; it adds color and a subtle smokiness!
Vegetables: I love adding carrots and celery for sweetness and flavor. If you want more variety, feel free to toss in potatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers—whatever you have on hand!
How Do You Get Juicy, Tender Pork in a Slow Cooker?
The secret to juicy, tender pork lies in low and slow cooking. Searing the meat first locks in flavors, but the slow cooker does all the hard work. Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- Before cooking, rub the spices onto the pork to let the flavors soak in.
- Set your slow cooker to low and resist the urge to peek! Keeping the lid on helps maintain moisture.
- Let the pork rest after cooking. This lets juices redistribute, making every slice tender and juicy.
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Loin Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds boneless pork loin roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 stalks celery, cut into chunks
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening gravy)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 6 to 8 hours to cook in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it! The end result is a delicious, tender roast waiting for you at dinnertime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, and onion powder. This will be your flavorful rub for the pork loin.
2. Season the Pork:
Take the pork loin roast and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure to cover all sides, so it flavors the meat well.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s browned all over. This adds extra flavor!
4. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Place the sliced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery at the bottom of your slow cooker. These veggies will complement the pork and soak up all the delicious juices.
5. Add the Pork:
Carefully place the seared pork loin on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. This helps keep the pork juicy as it cooks.
6. Add the Broth:
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the pork and veggies. This liquid will keep everything moist and flavorful.
7. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is very tender.
8. Rest the Pork:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juicy goodness!
9. Make the Gravy (Optional):
If you’d like, you can make a gravy from the cooking liquid. Strain it into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until it thickens up, about 3-5 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork and serve it warm with the cooked vegetables alongside and drizzled with the gravy if you made it. Enjoy your comforting and delicious meal!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful slow cooker pork loin roast!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a pork loin roast is ideal, you can also use a pork shoulder or tenderloin. Just be aware that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time due to fat content and size.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add potatoes, bell peppers, or parsnips for a heartier dish. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave. You can add a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! The cooked pork can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely, then slice and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
