Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples: A Sweet and Savory Fall-Inspired Comfort Dish

When the weather cools and comfort food cravings kick in, there’s nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying flavor of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples. This dish brings together the tenderness of slow-cooked pork with the natural sweetness of apples and a savory blend of herbs and spices—all simmered to perfection in one pot. It’s effortless, hearty, and full of fall-inspired flavor, but delicious enough to enjoy any time of year.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weekday or planning a relaxing weekend dinner, this pork tenderloin recipe will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and your table with happy faces.

What is Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples?

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples is a one-pot wonder made by slow-cooking a seasoned pork tenderloin in a crockpot with sliced apples, onions, broth, and spices. As the pork tenderizes, it absorbs the subtle sweetness of the apples and the savory goodness of the broth and aromatics. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth main dish with just the right balance of sweet and savory.

This recipe is perfect for fall, but honestly, it’s so good and easy, you’ll want to make it year-round.

Essential Ingredients for Pork Tenderloin with Apples

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting slow cooker dish:

• Pork tenderloin – 2 pounds
• Apples – 2 large (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), sliced
• Yellow onion – 1 medium, sliced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Chicken broth – 1 cup
• Apple cider or apple juice – 1/2 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon
• Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a warm autumn flavor)
• Fresh parsley – for garnish (optional)

These ingredients create a sweet-savory bath that makes the pork unbelievably tender and flavorful.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples

This dish is all about set-it-and-forget-it ease. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper. Sear it for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and adds a nice crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In the bottom of your slow cooker, layer the apple slices, onion slices, and garlic. These create a flavorful bed for the pork and release moisture as they cook.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, thyme, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the apples and onions in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add the Pork

Place the seared (or raw, if skipping that step) pork tenderloin on top of the apple-onion mixture. Spoon some of the sauce over the pork.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the pork and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.

Step 7: Serve with Sauce and Apples

Serve the pork sliced with a generous spoonful of the apples, onions, and cooking liquid over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Pork Tenderloin Recipe

1. Set It and Forget It

Your slow cooker does all the hard work. Just prep it in the morning, and come home to a tender, flavorful dinner.

2. Sweet and Savory Balance

The apples and apple cider bring sweetness, while the mustard, garlic, and thyme add savory depth.

3. Tender and Juicy

Slow cooking ensures the pork stays moist and flavorful from the inside out.

4. Perfect for Any Season

It’s cozy enough for fall and winter but light and fresh enough for spring dinners, too.

5. Pairs with Everything

Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted veggies—this dish plays well with all your favorite sides.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a silky sauce.
• Hard Cider Twist: Swap apple juice for hard cider for a boozy, grown-up version.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or sage for a deeper, woodsy flavor.

Serving Ideas for Pork Tenderloin with Apples

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Roasted green beans or asparagus
• Buttered egg noodles
• Wild rice or quinoa
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples is one of those comforting, reliable recipes that feels like a warm hug. The blend of tender meat, sweet apples, and savory herbs makes this dish a must-have in your fall and winter meal rotation—or anytime you’re craving a cozy, delicious dinner without all the fuss.

So plug in that slow cooker, grab a few apples, and treat yourself to a meal that tastes like it took hours—because it did, and it’s so worth it!

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FAQs

1. Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?

Yes, pork loin can be used, but it’s a larger and slightly tougher cut. You may need to increase the cook time by 1–2 hours on low.

2. Do I have to sear the pork first?

No, but searing adds extra flavor and helps the outside develop a nice texture. It’s a recommended step for the best results.

3. What type of apples work best?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith hold up well and balance the sweetness. Honeycrisp or Fuji add a sweeter touch.

4. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes! Add carrots, baby potatoes, or sweet potatoes for a full one-pot meal.

5. How do I thicken the sauce?

Remove the pork and apples, then whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook on high for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Let everything cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and mustard are gluten-free. Always check labels if needed.

8. Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Skip the brown sugar and use a sugar-free apple cider or substitute a small amount of a keto-friendly sweetener.

9. How should I reheat leftovers?

Gently warm in a skillet or in the microwave with some sauce to keep the pork moist.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A light Pinot Noir, Riesling, or Chardonnay complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.