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Tender Crockpot Pork Tenderloin Recipe with Apples and Onions for Easy Dinner

tender crockpot pork tenderloin - featured image

A comforting and easy crockpot recipe featuring tender pork tenderloin slow-cooked with apples and onions, delivering a sweet-savory flavor perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 medium apples, sliced (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp preferred)
  • 1 large yellow or sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for searing)

Instructions

  1. Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork tenderloin and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Rub the pork all over with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
  3. Core and thinly slice the apples (skin on is fine). Slice the onion into rings or half-rings.
  4. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side (optional).
  5. Spread the sliced onions and apples on the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top.
  6. Place the seared pork tenderloin on top of the apple and onion bed.
  7. Whisk together chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour evenly over the pork and fruit layers.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender.
  9. Remove the pork from the crockpot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve slices of pork topped with softened apples and onions, drizzled with cooking juices.

Notes

Searing the pork before slow cooking is optional but recommended for better flavor and texture. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; pork should reach 145°F (63°C). Layer apples and onions under the pork to prevent them from becoming too mushy. For gluten-free, verify chicken broth and brown sugar brands. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter. Apples can be swapped with pears for variation.

Nutrition

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