745357149 122105855607367591 6123196298185537856 n

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Medallions

by

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Medallions

Description

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Medallions are tender, juicy slices of pork slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy until they practically melt in your mouth. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners because the slow cooker does most of the work. Serve these flavorful medallions over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the Pork

  • 2 pounds pork tenderloin, sliced into 1-inch medallions
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork

Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Coat the pork medallions evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork medallions for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

Place onions and mushrooms in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add garlic.

Arrange pork medallions on top.

Mix together chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Pour over the pork.

Step 4: Slow Cook

  • Cook on Low for 4–6 hours.
  • Or cook on High for 2–3 hours.

Avoid overcooking, as pork tenderloin is naturally lean.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Mix cornstarch with cold water.

Stir into the slow cooker during the last 20–30 minutes.

Cover and continue cooking until the gravy thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Buttered egg noodles
  • Steamed rice
  • Roasted carrots
  • Green beans
  • Garlic bread
  • Buttered corn
  • Fresh dinner rolls

Tips for Success

  • Searing develops deeper flavor.
  • Don’t cook longer than recommended or the pork may become dry.
  • Use a meat thermometer for best results. Pork is done at 145°F (63°C) and benefits from a short resting period before serving.
  • Use low-sodium broth to better control saltiness.
  • Add baby potatoes during cooking for a complete one-pot meal.
  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer gravy.
  • Fresh herbs make an excellent garnish.

Recipe Notes

  • Pork loin and pork tenderloin are different cuts; use pork tenderloin for the most tender results.
  • Mushrooms can be omitted if preferred.
  • Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day.
  • Double the gravy if serving over rice or potatoes.
  • This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates if served with vegetables instead of starches.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 36g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Potassium: 670mg

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and helps keep you full.
  • Lean Meat Choice: Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork.
  • Rich in B Vitamins: Provides thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 for energy metabolism.
  • Good Source of Minerals: Contains phosphorus, zinc, potassium, and selenium.
  • Balanced Meal: Pairing it with vegetables creates a nutritious, satisfying dinner.
  • Slow Cooking Advantage: Produces tender meat while requiring minimal hands-on preparation.

Variations

  • Add baby carrots and potatoes for a one-pot meal.
  • Use cream of mushroom soup for an extra-creamy gravy.
  • Stir in spinach during the last 10 minutes.
  • Add bacon pieces for a smoky flavor.
  • Include sliced bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
  • Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the gravy becomes too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I skip browning the pork?
A: Yes. Browning is optional, but it adds richer flavor and a more appealing color.

Q: Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
A: Yes, but pork loin is larger and leaner in a different way, so it may require a longer cooking time and won’t be quite as tender.

Q: Can I cook it from frozen?
A: For food safety, thaw the pork completely before placing it in the slow cooker.

Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for about 3 minutes before serving.

Q: Can I make the gravy thicker?
A: Yes. Add an additional cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: What vegetables work well in this recipe?
A: Mushrooms, carrots, onions, celery, green beans, and baby potatoes all pair well with the pork.

Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the ingredients the night before, refrigerate them separately, then combine everything in the slow cooker the next day.

Q: What can I serve with pork tenderloin medallions?
A: Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a crisp garden salad all make excellent side dishes.

Leave a Comment