Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the tender, juicy texture of slow-cooked pork with a rich, tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, and the creamy Dijon sauce elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality experience. Here’s how to prepare this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin: Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a touch of flavor and helps to brown the pork before slow cooking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the pork with a subtle garlic taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the meat.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides the liquid needed for slow cooking and helps keep the pork moist.
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard: The key ingredient for the sauce, adding a tangy, slightly spicy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor to the dish.
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnishing: Provides a pop of color and freshness when serving.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
- Start by patting the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice brown sear. Season the pork all over with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives the pork a beautiful crust.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Once the pork is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the pork. The broth will create a moist environment that helps keep the pork tender during the slow cooking process.
- Cook the Pork:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should be tender and easy to shred or slice when done.
- Prepare the Creamy Dijon Sauce:
- About 15 minutes before the pork is ready, start making the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth from the slow cooker until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and fresh thyme leaves. Cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Serve the Pork Tenderloin:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the pork even more tender and flavorful.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon the creamy Dijon sauce over the top.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- If desired, garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the pork with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare the pork and sauce a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.
- Add Veggies: For a complete meal, add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the slow cooker along with the pork. They’ll cook in the juices and become incredibly flavorful.
- Herb Variations: If you don’t have thyme on hand, rosemary or sage would also work well in this recipe. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried can be used in a pinch.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Dijon sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the pork before serving.
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender pork and a rich, tangy sauce is simply irresistible. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor.
