Tired of complicated dinner recipes? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This BBQ pork loin crock pot recipe is your answer. It's the perfect blend of smoky sweetness and tender, juicy pork, all achieved with minimal effort. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that will impress your family and friends – a truly delicious dish for any weeknight or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound boneless pork loin roast
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Loin
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Step 2: Crock Pot Magic
Place the seasoned pork loin in your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the pork loin, making sure it’s generously coated.
Step 3: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C). You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding. Use two forks to easily shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. You can then mix the shredded pork back into the BBQ sauce in the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
Tips for the Best BBQ Pork Loin:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the pork loin to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust the BBQ sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor profile. Spicy? Sweet? Smoky? The possibilities are endless!
- Make it a meal: Serve your delicious BBQ pork loin on slider buns, with coleslaw, or alongside your favorite sides like baked beans or potato salad.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Pork Loin: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mixture for an extra kick.
- Apple BBQ Pork Loin: Add ½ cup of diced apples to the slow cooker along with the pork and BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Pineapple BBQ Pork Loin: A cup of chopped pineapple adds a tropical sweetness. Perfect for a summer BBQ!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe for BBQ pork loin in a crock pot is a fantastic option for homemade cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's a winner for both quick dinner ideas and more elaborate gatherings. Try it out and let us know what you think!