Description
A simple and tender crockpot lemon garlic pork tenderloin recipe that is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 medium lemons, juiced and zested
- 4 to 6 large garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Trim the pork tenderloin by removing any silver skin or excess fat using a sharp knife.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place the trimmed pork tenderloin in the crockpot and pour the marinade over it. Coat the meat evenly. Optionally marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- About halfway through cooking, baste the pork with the cooking juices and optionally turn the meat over for even cooking.
- Remove the pork tenderloin and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Slice the pork into 1/2-inch slices, drizzle with pan sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Trim silver skin to avoid chewy bites. Cook on low for 4-5 hours to keep pork tender and juicy. Baste or turn halfway through cooking for even moisture. Let meat rest before slicing to lock in juices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Pan sauce is optional but recommended for extra flavor. Adjust cooking time if doubling the recipe or using a different slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of pork tenderlo
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 35
Keywords: crockpot pork tenderloin, lemon garlic pork, slow cooker pork, easy dinner, weeknight meal, tender pork, garlic pork recipe