Sweet meets savory in this Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin recipe that will become a favorite at your dinner table. This dish is not only perfect for family gatherings but also ideal for meal prepping throughout the week. The combination of crispy bacon and a sweet, sticky glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile that will impress your guests any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal with little effort.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs beautifully with the pork and bacon.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or slice it thin for sandwiches and wraps, making it great for various occasions.
- Impressive Presentation: Wrapped in bacon and cooked to perfection, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this tender pork, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Using the right tools can make cooking your Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin even more enjoyable. A few essential items will help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours for tender meat.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess, ensuring your seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Sharp knife: A must-have for easily slicing the tender pork after cooking.
Ingredients
Sweet meets savory in this incredibly tender pork tenderloin wrapped in bacon and slow-cooked to perfection.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (1.5-2 pounds)
- 6-8 slices bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sweet & Savory Mix
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Garnish Options
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Sliced apples or pears
How to Make Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup packed brown sugar
2. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
5. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Pork
Rub the brown sugar mixture evenly all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring every part is covered with this flavorful blend.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
On a clean surface, lay out the bacon slices slightly overlapping each other. Place the seasoned pork on top of the bacon and carefully wrap it up.
Step 5: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the wrapped pork seam-side down into your slow cooker.
Step 6: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW setting for about 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into medallions.
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and savory Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
Serving Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is a delightful experience that brings together sweet and savory flavors. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this dish.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Apple Walnut Salad: Combine sliced apples and walnuts with a tangy dressing to complement the dish’s sweetness.
Use as a Sandwich Filling
- Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: Slice the tenderloin and serve it on crusty bread with your favorite toppings like arugula and aioli.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: Shred the pork after cooking and serve in soft tortillas with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.
Add a Fruit Sauce
- Apple Cider Reduction: Drizzle a homemade apple cider reduction over the pork for added flavor.
- Spicy Peach Sauce: A spicy peach sauce can enhance the sweetness of the tenderloin while adding heat.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Thyme Sprigs: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the pork.
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for color and freshness.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
Perfecting your Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Select fresh, high-quality pork tenderloin and bacon for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skip Seasoning: Generously season the pork with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its taste.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on LOW for 6-7 hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the pork tender.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pork to rest for 10 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices when slicing.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the brown sugar amount based on your preference for sweetness.
- Serve Immediately: For optimal taste, serve right after slicing while it’s still warm.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and richness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies provide a nice texture contrast and earthy flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the sweetness of the pork perfectly and adds crunch.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs offers a healthy, grain-based side that’s filling yet light.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots roasted in honey mirror the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins create a delightful pairing, perfect for soaking up juices from the pork.
- Baked Beans: A hearty dish that complements the sweet notes of bacon and brown sugar in the tenderloin.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add freshness without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch for:
- Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your pork tenderloin properly can lead to bland results. Make sure to generously season with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Not wrapping the bacon tightly: If the bacon is not wrapped snugly around the pork, it may not cook evenly. Ensure that the bacon overlaps slightly and covers the tenderloin completely.
- Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the pork right away can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Always let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Packing too much into your slow cooker can prevent even cooking. Stick to one pork tenderloin at a time to ensure optimal results.
- Not checking doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be risky. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- item Allow the pork to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
- item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
- item Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.
Reheating Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
- item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- item Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in short intervals until hot.
- item Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this dish, here are some common questions:
How do I make Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin?
To make this dish, season your pork tenderloin, rub it with a brown sugar mixture, wrap it in bacon, and slow cook it until tender.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken breasts or beef if you prefer different proteins.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when my pork is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that your pork has reached an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal safety and tenderness.
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or even add spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory with this Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin. This dish features a succulent pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a sticky brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully during slow cooking. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe allows the flavors to meld over time, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Serve it as a main course or slice it thin for sandwiches; it’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (1.5–2 pounds)
- 6–8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar until well mixed.
- Rub the brown sugar mixture evenly over the pork.
- Lay bacon slices overlapping slightly on a clean surface. Place the seasoned pork on top and wrap tightly.
- Transfer to the slow cooker seam-side down and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
