Introduction

Crockpot Pork Loin with Apples is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, combining tender, juicy pork with the natural sweetness of apples and a hint of aromatic spices. This recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level, making your home smell irresistible while the slow cooker works its magic.

The pork loin becomes tender and flavorful as it slowly cooks alongside apples, onions, and a simple yet luscious sauce. The apples break down slightly, creating a naturally sweet and tangy glaze that complements the pork perfectly. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or a cozy weekend lunch.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless, hearty, and naturally flavorful. The combination of pork and apples is timeless, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. You don’t need to fuss with complicated techniques—just assemble the ingredients, set the crockpot, and come back to a perfectly cooked meal.

The subtle sweetness of the apples balances the savory pork, while the aromatics like garlic, onions, and a touch of thyme elevate the dish to something special. It’s a meal that feels homemade and luxurious at the same time.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

One-pot slow cooker meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Pork loin stays moist, tender, and juicy.
Apples add natural sweetness and a delightful texture.
Comforting yet elegant, perfect for family dinners or guests.
Sauce doubles as a delicious glaze or gravy for serving.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Total Time: ~4–6 hours

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 4–6
Calories per Serving: ~350–400 kcal (depending on pork loin size and apple type)
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2–3 lb boneless pork loin
2–3 medium apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels.
Optional: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear pork loin on all sides for 2–3 minutes for extra flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot

Place sliced onions and apples at the bottom of the crockpot.
Lay the pork loin on top of the apple-onion layer.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the sauce evenly over the pork loin and apples.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and is tender.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the pork loin and serve with cooked apples and onions. Spoon the sauce over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

How to Serve

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Add a side of green beans or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
Leftovers work beautifully in sandwiches or wraps the next day.

Recipe Tips

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to avoid mushy results.
Searing the pork is optional but enhances flavor.
Avoid overcooking on high; pork loin can dry out if cooked too long.
For a thicker sauce, remove the pork and apples and simmer the liquid on the stove for 5–10 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Apple: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle kick.
Maple Twist: Replace brown sugar with 2 tbsp maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.
Herbaceous Version: Add rosemary or sage for extra aromatic flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Include carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for 2–3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave; add a splash of broth if sauce thickens.

Special Equipment Needed

Crockpot / slow cooker
Knife and cutting board
Small bowl for sauce
Skillet for optional searing

FAQ

Q1: Can I use bone-in pork loin?
Yes, increase cooking time by 30–45 minutes for full tenderness.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in the crockpot insert and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking.

Q3: Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, just be aware that sweeter apples will produce a sweeter sauce, and softer apples may break down more.

Q4: Can I cook this on high?
Yes, 2–3 hours on high works, but check doneness to prevent dryness.

Q5: Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes can be added for a one-pot meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pork Loin with Apples is a sweet, savory, and tender dish that combines the natural sweetness of apples with perfectly cooked pork. It’s effortless, comforting, and elegant, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

This dish is a must-try for anyone seeking a simple, flavorful, and cozy meal with minimal prep and maximum taste.