Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Try this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin recipe.
Try this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin recipe.
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 t. salt
- 1 t. apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 t. garlic powder
- 4 c. water
- dash of hot sauce
- 1 (2 lb.) pork tenderloin
- 1 t. light brown sugar
- 1 t. paprika
- 1/2 t. thyme
- 3/4 c. apple butter
- 1 t. whole grain mustard
- 1 c. grits (i used stone ground)
- 4 t. unsalted butter melted
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese grated
- Carbohydrate 3.85 g
- Cholesterol 2115 mg
- Fat 49.7 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 62.9 g
- Saturated Fat 15.495 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (506g)
- Sodium 1320.248 mg
- Sugar 3.85 g
- Trans Fat 8.335 g
- Calories 715 calories
Step-by-step
- Mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, garlic powder and thyme and rub it on all sides of the pork tenderloin.
- Place the tenderloin in the slow cooker.
- Whisk together the apple butter, apple cider vinegar and mustard.
- Pour evenly over the pork.
- Cover and cook the pork in the slow cooker on low (6 - 8 hours) or high (3 - 4 hours).
- Shred the meat before serving.
- About 40 minutes before serving, preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Bring the water and salt to a boil in a saucepan on the stove and whisk in the grits.
- Cook according to package directions.
- Remove from heat.
- Whisk into the hot grits the melted butter, shredded cheese, beaten eggs and hot sauce.
- Spread the grits into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes.
- Serve the grits topped with the shredded pork and crispy bacon (optional but highly recommended).
A Busy Mom's Delight: Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Weeknights are crazy, aren't they? Between homework, soccer practice, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner feels like a monumental task. That’s why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes. They’re my secret weapon for creating flavorful, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a perfect example – a recipe that’s both impressive and incredibly easy.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You simply rub a flavorful blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme onto the pork tenderloin. Then, it's into the slow cooker it goes with a luscious apple butter glaze. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming the pork into a tender, juicy masterpiece. The apple butter glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the savory pork. It's a delightful combination of flavors that my whole family loves.
I often pair this pork tenderloin with creamy cheesy grits. It's a simple side dish that elevates the entire meal. The creamy texture of the grits provides a beautiful contrast to the tender pork, and the cheese adds a delightful richness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon on top? Don't even get me started. It's pure comfort food heaven.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Simplicity: Minimal prep time and virtually no hands-on cooking.
- Flavor: The apple butter glaze is a game-changer, adding a unique sweetness and tang.
- Versatility: This pork tenderloin is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Healthier Option: Slow cooking helps retain moisture and nutrients in the pork.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use a quality apple butter: The flavor of the apple butter will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Look for an apple butter with a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Don't overcook the pork: Overcooked pork tenderloin can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Get creative with sides: This pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
- Make it ahead: The pork tenderloin can be cooked ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prepping.
- Leftovers are amazing: This dish tastes even better the next day! Use leftover pork tenderloin in sandwiches, salads, or tacos.
This slow cooker recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of planning. It’s the kind of recipe that makes busy weeknights feel a little less hectic and a lot more delicious. So next time you're looking for an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dinner, give this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Pork Tenderloin a try. You won't be disappointed!
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
