Savory Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Garlic and Herbs

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you're looking for a dish that combines ease with elegance, this Savory Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Garlic and Herbs is a winner. It's perfect for those days when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you a tender, aromatic pork loin that impresses every time.

Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Garlic and Herbs

Pork loin: The star of the show, known for its tenderness and mild flavor. It absorbs the marinade beautifully.

Garlic: Infuses the meat with a robust, savory taste that pairs perfectly with herbs.

Olive oil: Helps to bind the herbs and garlic to the pork, keeping it moist during cooking.

Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs provide a fragrant, earthy undertone that complements the pork.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, creating a flavorful base for the pork to cook in.

Lemon juice: Provides a subtle brightness that lifts the dish.

Dijon mustard: Adds a slight tang and complexity to the marinade.

Onion: Acts as a flavor bed for the pork, soaking up delicious juices and adding sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh herbs if possible; they provide a more pronounced flavor than dried.
  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water will work in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

This pork loin pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. For a comforting winter meal, serve it with roasted root vegetables. The dish can also be shredded and used in sandwiches or tacos for a quick lunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, a pork shoulder or pork butt would also work well, though the cooking time may vary.
Can I cook this on high heat?
It's best cooked on low to ensure the meat stays tender and juicy.
What if I don't have fresh herbs?
You can substitute with dried herbs, but use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Savory Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Garlic and Herbs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by making a simple marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture will coat the pork and infuse it with flavor as it cooks.

With clean hands, rub this herb mixture all over the pork loin. Make sure you cover all sides evenly for the best flavor distribution.

Next, line the bottom of your slow cooker with the sliced onion. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the pork elevated, allowing the juices to circulate.

Place the seasoned pork loin on top of the onion bed. This setup helps the pork cook evenly and absorb all those lovely flavors.

In another bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Pour this over the pork, ensuring it spreads evenly around the meat.

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You'll know it's done when the pork is tender and practically falls apart when you test it with a fork.

Once cooked, carefully remove the pork loin and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal prep time — set it and forget it.
  • Rich, herbaceous flavor with a hint of lemony brightness.
  • Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
  • Leftovers are versatile and delicious.

Ingredients

4 lbs pork loin
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 large onion, sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin.
3. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Lay the pork loin on top of the onions.
5. In another bowl, mix chicken broth, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard; pour over pork loin.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender.
7. Once cooked, remove pork loin and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

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