Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin Recipe: Irresistibly Flavorful

Introduction

Hey there, food lovers! I’m Jenny, and today I’m excited to share a delicious dish that will make your taste buds dance: the Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin. As a mom, I know how important it is to whip up meals that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a hit for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Living in New Jersey, I draw inspiration from the changing seasons. Autumn, in particular, brings a bounty of apples that I love to use in my cooking. This dish showcases the delightful combination of apple butter and tender pork, delivering an irresistibly flavorful experience. So, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering meal!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful dish:

• 2 pounds pork tenderloin
• 1 cup apple butter
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

Knowing how much time you need is crucial in the kitchen. For this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin, you will need:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (if cooking on low)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This adds a sweet base and prevents the pork from sticking.

Step 2: Season the Pork

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Then, sprinkle salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg generously over the meat. This step is vital for enhancing the flavors!

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Place the seasoned pork tenderloin over the onions in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth and apple butter over the pork. Make sure it’s coated well.

Step 4: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The longer, the better! This slow cooking method ensures the pork becomes tender and juicy.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with a generous drizzle of the apple butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 300mg

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for ways to make this recipe even healthier, consider these tips:

• Use low-sugar apple butter to reduce the overall sugar content.
• Substitute pork tenderloin with skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Add more veggies, like carrots or sweet potatoes, for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Apple cider glazed Brussels sprouts
• Fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not searing the pork before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to less flavor.
• Overcooking the pork can dry it out, so monitor the cooking time closely.
• Skipping the resting time before slicing can make the pork less juicy.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them properly:

• Allow the pork to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• For longer storage, freeze the sliced pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of fall right to your table. The combination of sweet apple butter and savory pork makes for a delightful meal that your family will love. Plus, with my easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy stress-free cooking!

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is great for its tenderness, you can also use pork shoulder or loin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is apple butter the same as applesauce?

No, apple butter is thicker, richer, and has a more concentrated flavor than applesauce. It adds a unique depth to the dish!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cooking can be a joyful experience, especially when you’re creating something delicious for your loved ones. I hope you try this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Tenderloin and make memories around the dinner table. Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process, so have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment!

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