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Sweet, savory, and bursting with tropical flavor, this Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin is the kind of recipe that makes the whole house smell incredible all day long. A juicy pork loin slow-braised in a Hawaiian-inspired pineapple and soy glaze until it is tender enough to slice with a spoon and glazed with a sauce that is both sweet and deeply savory.
This crockpot pineapple pork recipe is a refreshing break from the usual slow cooker rotation and one that the entire family will immediately love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet tropical pineapple flavor paired with savory soy and garlic
- Juicy, tender pork that practically falls apart after slow cooking
- A simple, impressive recipe with beautiful presentation
- Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd with ease
- Works for weeknight dinners and casual entertaining alike
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork loin (3 to 4 lbs) | 1 whole |
| Crushed pineapple with juice | 1 can (20 oz) |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 cloves |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley or cilantro | For garnish |
Substitutions:
- Pineapple tidbits or fresh pineapple chunks can replace crushed pineapple
- Honey can replace brown sugar for a more natural sweetener
- Pork tenderloin works as a leaner, faster-cooking alternative
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the pork
Pat the pork loin dry and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the pork (optional but recommended)
In a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil, sear the pork loin on all sides for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the sauce
Whisk together crushed pineapple with its juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
Step 4: Add to the crockpot
Pour the pineapple sauce over the seared pork loin.
Step 5: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Make the glaze
Remove the pork and rest for 10 minutes. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Simmer over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
Step 7: Slice and serve
Slice the pork loin and spoon the pineapple glaze generously on top.
Tips and Tricks
- Searing the pork loin before slow cooking creates a caramelized crust that locks in juices and adds significant depth of flavor
- Let the pork rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute evenly
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, add a few fresh pineapple rings directly on top of the pork during cooking
- The reduced pineapple glaze is incredible on everything drizzle it over roasted vegetables or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce
- A pinch of cayenne pepper in the sauce adds a pleasant contrast to the sweetness
Serving Suggestions
- Over steamed white rice with extra pineapple glaze
- With roasted sweet potatoes for a full Hawaiian-inspired plate
- With a simple green salad and crusty bread
- Alongside grilled pineapple rings and coconut rice for a tropical presentation
- In tacos with coleslaw and jalapeños for a sweet and spicy combination
Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the resting period : cutting into the pork immediately after cooking causes all the juices to run out, leaving dry slices. Always rest for at least 10 minutes.
- Not using a meat thermometer : pork loin is safe at 145 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature. Going above 160 degrees will result in dry, overcooked meat.
- Cooking on HIGH the entire time : HIGH heat can cause the pork to become tough and dry. LOW and slow produces a dramatically juicier result.
- Skipping the sear : while optional, a quick sear on all sides before slow cooking makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Not reducing the sauce : the cooking liquid needs to be reduced and thickened on the stovetop to achieve the glossy, restaurant-quality glaze.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 44 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
| Sodium | 490 mg |
Based on 6 servings. Values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
FAQ
Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin?
Yes. Pork tenderloin is leaner and cooks faster. Reduce the cooking time to 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 1.5 to 2 hours on HIGH and monitor the internal temperature carefully.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes. Fresh crushed or finely chopped pineapple works beautifully. Note that fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can over-tenderize meat if marinated too long add it directly to the crockpot rather than marinating overnight.
What is the safe internal temperature for pork?
The USDA recommends 145 degrees Fahrenheit for whole cuts of pork, followed by a 3-minute rest. Use a meat thermometer to check before serving.
Can I freeze leftover pork loin?
Yes. Slice and freeze in portions with some of the pineapple glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water.
Can I make this recipe with bone-in pork?
Yes. Bone-in pork shoulder or pork butt can be used and produces an even more tender, pull-apart result. Adjust cooking time to 8 to 10 hours on LOW.
Recipe Card
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6 to 7 hours on LOW |
| Total Time | Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes |
| Servings | 5 to 6 |
| Calories | 380 kcal per serving |
| Course | Dinner |
| Cuisine | Hawaiian-American |
| Focus Keyword | slow cooker pineapple pork loin |
| Related Keywords | crockpot pineapple pork, hawaiian pork loin slow cooker, sweet savory pork crockpot |
Make This Tonight
This Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin delivers the kind of sweet, savory, tropical flavor combination that instantly feels like a special occasion even on a regular Tuesday night. The pineapple glaze alone is worth making this recipe for.
Tried this recipe? Leave your rating below and let me know how yours turned out in the comments. Save this to your Pinterest board and subscribe for more easy slow cooker dinners every week.
