Tender, juicy, and packed with savory flavor, this Slow Cooker Pork Loin is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal. The pork cooks low and slow in a flavorful broth with garlic, onions, and herbs, creating a delicious roast that slices beautifully and practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing a comforting family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Unlike pork tenderloin, pork loin is larger and benefits from slow cooking, which helps it stay moist while absorbing the rich flavors of the cooking liquid. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the savory gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy slow cooker preparation
• Tender, juicy pork every time
• Perfect for family dinners
• Creates a flavorful homemade gravy
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Budget-friendly and filling
• Minimal hands-on cooking

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on Low or 4–5 hours on High
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the Pork Loin

• 3–4 pound (1.4–1.8 kg) boneless pork loin roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Slow Cooker

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons butter

Optional Gravy Thickener

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Cracked black pepper

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork

Pat the pork loin dry using paper towels.

In a small bowl, combine:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika

Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire pork loin.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the pork loin for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

This step adds extra flavor and color but may be skipped if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Set the seasoned pork loin on top.

Step 4: Make the Cooking Liquid

In a bowl, whisk together:

• Chicken broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Thyme
• Rosemary

Pour the mixture around the pork.

Place butter on top of the roast.

Step 5: Cook

Low Setting

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours

Slow Cooker Temperature: approximately 190–200°F (88–93°C)

High Setting

Cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours

Slow Cooker Temperature: approximately 300°F (149°C)

The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of:

Safe Pork Temperature

145°F (63°C) for slicing

For very tender pork that easily pulls apart, cook until it reaches approximately 190–195°F (88–91°C) internally.

Step 6: Rest the Pork

Remove the pork loin carefully from the slow cooker.

Place on a cutting board and tent loosely with foil.

Allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

This helps retain juices and improves texture.

Step 7: Make the Gravy

If desired, strain the cooking liquid.

For thicker gravy:

Mix:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Whisk into the cooking liquid.

Cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice the pork against the grain.

Serve with warm gravy spooned over the top.

Garnish with fresh parsley and black pepper.

Slow Cooker Temperature Guide

Method	Temperature	Time
Low	190–200°F (88–93°C)	6–8 hours
High	300°F (149°C)	4–5 hours
Pork Safe Internal Temperature	145°F (63°C)	Minimum
Fall-Apart Tender	190–195°F (88–91°C)	Optional

Best Side Dishes

This pork loin pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Roasted carrots
• Green beans
• Rice pilaf
• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli
• Sweet potatoes

Tips for Perfect Pork Loin

Don’t Overcook

Pork loin is leaner than pork shoulder and can become dry if overcooked.

Use a Meat Thermometer

The most reliable way to ensure perfectly cooked pork.

Let It Rest

Resting helps redistribute juices throughout the meat.

Sear for Extra Flavor

While optional, searing develops deeper flavor through caramelization.

Flavor Variations

Garlic Herb Pork Loin

Double the garlic and add fresh rosemary sprigs.

Honey Garlic Version

Add:

• ¼ cup honey

to the cooking liquid.

Apple Pork Loin

Add:

• 2 sliced apples

during cooking for a sweet-savory flavor.

Mushroom Pork Loin

Add:

• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms

around the roast.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze sliced pork with gravy for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Microwave

Heat individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

Oven

Cover with foil and warm at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Stovetop

Reheat gently in gravy over medium-low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork tenderloin?

Yes, but reduce cooking time significantly. Pork tenderloin is much smaller and cooks faster.

Should the pork be submerged?

No. The liquid should come about one-third of the way up the roast.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Potatoes, carrots, celery, and mushrooms work especially well.

Do I have to sear the pork first?

No, but it enhances flavor and appearance.

Why is my pork dry?

Most often, pork loin becomes dry when cooked beyond the recommended internal temperature.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving (based on 8 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	3g
Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	110mg
Sodium	420mg
Potassium	720mg
Fiber	0g
Sugar	1g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.