Crockpot Pork Tenderloin Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to the mouthwatering smell of pork tenderloin slow cooked to perfection.

This Crockpot Pork Tenderloin Recipe is everything you need for a simple yet flavorful meal that practically cooks itself.

The tender, juicy pork paired with a savory blend of herbs and spices creates a dish that’s hard to resist.

I’ve made this dish countless times, especially when I’m craving a hearty meal but don’t want to be tied to the stove. Why not pair this with a refreshing Kani Salad or a crisp Cucumber Salad for a complete meal?

Behind the Recipe

This recipe blends the convenience of slow cooking with bold barbecue flavors. Pork tenderloin cooks beautifully in a crockpot, it stays moist, pulls apart easily, and absorbs the sauce as it simmers.

The combination of chili powder and mustard gives the barbecue sauce more body, adding smokiness and tang while still keeping the dish simple and approachable.

Why You’ll Be Hooked?

• The slow cooker does all the work, which means more time for you to enjoy the meal.
• The slow cooking method locks in juices, resulting in a moist, melt-in-your-mouth tenderloin.
• Experiment with different spices or add vegetables to the pot for a one-pot wonder.
• The leftovers are just as good (if not better) the next day, making it a great choice for meal prepping.

Absolutely loved this recipe! I made it last night, and the pork came out super tender and juicy. The flavors were spot on—my whole family went back for seconds. It was so easy to prep in the morning and let it slow cook while I tackled my day. This one’s definitely going into my regular dinner rotation. Thanks for such a great recipe!

— Emily Thompson, Ohio

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Slow cooking pork has roots across many cultures, but the American crockpot version really took off in the 1970s when slow cookers became a household staple.

Pork tenderloin, being a lean cut, benefits from gentle cooking and flavorful sauces. Barbecue sauce-based slow cooker recipes remain popular today because they’re easy, versatile, and always crowd pleasing.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Sear pork tenderloins before slow cooking for added flavor (optional but recommended).
2. Whisk mustard into barbecue sauce for even coating.
3. Cook on LOW for the most tender results.
4. Don’t open the lid during cooking, it slows the process significantly.
5. Shred pork gently and mix with sauce to soak up extra flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. 6 quart slow cooker
2. Sharp knife
3. Meat thermometer
4. Basting brush (optional)
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing bowl

Ingredients in This Recipe

• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 lbs pork tenderloin, about two 1-pound tenderloins
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp spicy brown mustard or Dijon mustard
• 2 cups barbecue sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

• Pork tenderloin: Use pork loin or pork shoulder (adjust time).
• Barbecue sauce: Honey BBQ, spicy BBQ, or sugar-free sauce all work.
• Mustard: Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard.
• Chili powder: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for extra heat.
• Kosher salt: Sea salt or table salt (use slightly less).

Ingredient Spotlight

Pork Tenderloin:
A naturally lean cut that becomes incredibly tender in the crockpot. It absorbs sauce beautifully, making it perfect for shredded or sliced dishes.

Barbecue Sauce:
The slow cooking process deepens its flavor, turning it into a thick, glossy coating for the pork.

Instructions for Making This Recipe

Step 1: Add a pork tenderloin to a 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, mustard, chili powder, kosher salt, and any additional spices you like.

Step 3: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the pork tenderloin.

Step 4: Secure the lid on the slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook on high for 2–2 ½ hours or on low for 4 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 6: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and slice the tenderloin and serve.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving, 6 servings)

Nutrition	Value
Calories	527kcal
Carbohydrates	60g
Fibre	2g
Fat	15g
Protein	9g
Cholesterol	147g

Texture & Flavor Secrets

• Chili powder adds warmth and smokiness.
• Mustard balances sweetness and adds tang.
• Slow cooking ensures pork stays tender, never dry.
• Resting the pork before shredding keeps juices inside.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Add sliced onions to the bottom of the crockpot for extra flavor.
• Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
• Add red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Use leftover sauce for dipping.
• For thicker sauce, reduce it on the stovetop before serving.

What to Avoid

1. Don’t overcook on HIGH, pork tenderloin is lean and can dry out.
2. Avoid using very sweet BBQ sauce without balancing mustard or spices.
3. Don’t shred too early, the meat should fall apart easily.
4. Avoid adding too much salt; BBQ sauce often contains salt already.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours (LOW)
• Total Time: ~6–7 hours

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
• Freezes well for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently to avoid drying.
• Make the sauce ahead for quicker assembly.

What to Serve With It

• Mashed Potatoes
• Cornbread
• Green Beans
• Macaroni Salad
• Roasted Vegetables

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Pork BBQ sandwiches
• Stuff into tacos or quesadillas
• Pork-topped baked potatoes
• Add to rice bowls
• Stuff into wraps or sliders

Additional Tips

• Use a liner in the crockpot for easy cleanup.
• Add smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Double the sauce if you like very saucy pork.
• Taste the sauce before cooking and adjust seasoning.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the tender pork piled high on a platter, drizzled with glossy barbecue sauce and surrounded by fresh herbs or sliced jalapeños. Add a bowl of extra sauce on the side so guests can personalize their plates.

Variations to Try

1. Honey Mustard Pork: Add honey to the mustard.
2. Smoky Chipotle Pork: Add chipotle peppers in adobo.
3. Sweet & Spicy Version: Add brown sugar + chili flakes.
4. Apple BBQ Pork: Replace some sauce with apple cider.
5. Carolina-Style Pork: Add vinegar and mustard.

FAQs

1. Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
   Yes, cook slightly longer for best tenderness.
2. Can I cook this from frozen?
   Not recommended for slow cookers.
3. Do I have to sear the pork?
   No, but it adds flavor.
4. Can I thicken the sauce?
   Simmer it on the stovetop before serving.
5. Can this be made spicy?
   Yes, add cayenne or hot sauce.
6. Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?
   Absolutely.
7. Can I shred the pork in the crockpot?
   Yes, it’s convenient and keeps it saucy.
8. How do I prevent overcooking?
   Cook on LOW and check at 6 hours.
9. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes, it reheats beautifully.
10. How do I serve it for guests?
    On a large platter with rolls, slaw, and extra sauce.