This Crock Pot Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin is a tender and flavorful dish that cooks itself! The garlic and balsamic vinegar work together to make the meat juicy and delicious.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something tasty without much work. Just toss everything in the pot, set it, and forget it! I love serving it with some mashed potatoes; they soak up all the tasty juices. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star of the dish. A 3 to 4 lb roast gives you plenty of meat that stays juicy during cooking. If you can’t find pork loin, a pork shoulder is a great alternative and will also be flavorful.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but fresh is always better for a robust taste. I always aim for four cloves, but feel free to adjust to your preference.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth and tang to the dish. If balsamic is not available, try apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar for sweetness. It won’t be the same but will still work well!
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both of these sweeteners help balance the vinegar’s acidity. Use whichever you have on hand. I prefer honey for a more floral note, but brown sugar adds delicious caramel notes.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme make a big difference in flavor. Dried herbs work fine too, just use about a third of the amount. I find fresh herbs really boost the taste!
How Do I Ensure the Pork Loin Stays Juicy?
Keeping your pork loin juicy is all about cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by seasoning the meat well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make a marinade with garlic, balsamic vinegar, and herbs. This helps tenderize while adding flavor.
- Add chicken broth to the bottom of the crock pot. This moisture is key to preventing the pork from drying out.
- Cook the pork on low for 6-8 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too much so it retains heat.
- Allow the pork to rest for about 10 minutes once it’s done cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, making each slice more delicious.
Following these steps will give you a tender, juicy pork loin that’s packed with flavor!
How to Make Crock Pot Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 3 to 4 lb pork loin roast
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Marinade:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Optional: baby carrots and small potatoes for cooking alongside
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes for prep time and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a day when you want to set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Loin:
Start by patting the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Then, season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the meat.
2. Make the Garlic Balsamic Marinade:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, honey (or brown sugar), rosemary, and thyme. This creates a flavorful marinade that will soak into the pork as it cooks.
3. Combine and Prepare for Cooking:
Place the seasoned pork loin into the crock pot. Pour the garlic balsamic marinade evenly over the top so the pork is well-coated. Make sure to get the marinade in every nook and cranny!
4. Add Some Moisture:
Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the crock pot. This helps keep the pork moist and creates a delicious base for your gravy later.
5. Optional Veggies:
If you’re adding baby carrots and small potatoes, arrange them around the pork now for a lovely all-in-one meal. They’ll soak up all that delicious flavor from the pork.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F, and it will be tender and juicy when it’s done.
7. Rest the Meat:
After cooking, carefully transfer the pork to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps keep the juices inside the meat, making it more flavorful when sliced.
8. Optional Gravy:
If you want a lovely sauce to go with the pork, pour the juices from the crock pot into a small saucepan. Simmer and reduce it on the stove to create a thick sauce or gravy to drizzle over the sliced pork.
9. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the pork loin into medallions. Drizzle the reduced balsamic sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
10. Enjoy!
Serve it warm and enjoy your succulent, flavorful garlic balsamic pork loin with your favorite sides. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! If you can’t find a pork loin, a pork shoulder or tenderloin can work instead. Just adjust the cooking time – pork shoulder may take a bit longer due to its size and fat content.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, like tamari, and make sure any broth you use is also gluten-free.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Crock Pot?
Yes! Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips work wonderfully. Just make sure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
