Sarah BrownIf you’re like me, you appreciate a well-rounded meal. This slow cooker bacon garlic pork loin is a star. It deserves sidekicks that complement its rich, savory flavor. Here are a few ideas you can consider:
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture pairs beautifully with the tender pork. Add a hint of garlic for a flavor boost.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans can add color and a hint of sweetness to your plate. Roasting brings out their natural flavors and adds a delightful crunch.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch from coleslaw, especially when laced with a zesty dressing, can balance the richness of the pork. Think of it as a contrast point on your plate, brightening your meal.
Ah, the slow cooker. Just mentioning it makes me feel all warm and cozy. Its charm lies in the effortless way it transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Today, I’m excited to share one of my favorite recipes: slow cooker bacon garlic pork loin. This dish combines the saltiness of bacon with the warmth of garlic, creating a flavor bomb that’s hard to resist.
Picture this: It’s a chilly evening. The sun is setting. You’ve just returned from a long day, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. You want something delicious, comforting, and easy. This recipe fits the bill. As the pork loin slowly cooks, your home fills with the most incredible aroma. Trust me: you’ll want to keep this one in your recipe arsenal.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Flavor Fusion: The combination of bacon, garlic, and pork creates an unforgettable taste experience. While bacon adds a salty, smoky element, garlic infuses warmth and depth. Together, they make an irresistible pairing that lingers on your palate.
2. Slow Cooking Magic: Slow cooking allows the pork to become meltingly tender. The low, even heat ensures that every bite is juicy. It’s quite different from quick methods like grilling or baking, which can lead to dry meat.
3. Minimal Prep, Maximum Impact: You don’t need to be a culinary genius to whip up this dish. The prep requires basic chopping and measuring. Toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Now that’s my kind of cooking!
4. Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily adapt to what you have on hand. Whether you want to change the spices or add a splash of your favorite sauce, it’s flexible. Plus, it’s a fantastic leftover meal that tastes even better the next day.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a succulent pork loin that pulls apart effortlessly. The smoky notes from the bacon accompany the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a delightful contrast. The garlic adds a flavorful kick, binding everything together. Each bite is a celebration of flavors. You’ll experience the savory richness of bacon, the soft tenderness of garlic, and the juicy, flavorful pork. It’s like a hug from your dinner plate.
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Slow Cooker Bacon Garlic Pork Loin Variations?
Many recipes out there include a laundry list of ingredients that can overshadow the main flavors. I’ve stripped it down to the essentials: quality pork, good bacon, and fresh garlic. This straightforward approach keeps the dish balanced and allows each component to shine. Less is more, right?
You will also like the following Lunch and Dinner recipes!
- Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken
- Copycat Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tender
- Cheesecake Factory Chicken Bellagio Recipe
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this masterpiece to life:
- 8 slices thick-cut smoky bacon
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy balance)
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary (optional, for a herby aroma)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
- 3 pounds boneless pork loin, trimmed of extra fat
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating your slow cooker bacon garlic pork loin.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. Next, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and integrates the flavor throughout the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want that lovely browning without burning it. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet with some of the rendered bacon fat (or using vegetable oil), sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook it; you want it softly fragrant, not burnt.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the bacon, sautéed garlic, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. This mixture is where the magic begins.
Step 5: Add the Pork Loin
Carefully place the trimmed pork loin in the slow cooker. Spoon the bacon mixture over the top, ensuring the pork is well coated. This helps to lock in flavor while it cooks.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it on high for 3-4 hours, but I recommend low for maximum tenderness. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the meat for extra flavor.
Notes
Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Bacon Choice: Go for a thick-cut smoky bacon for better texture and flavor.
- Garlic Love: Fresh garlic is best. Save the jarred stuff for emergency situations.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the pork rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Leftovers: This dish stores well. It can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches or warmed up.
- Experiment: Feel free to adjust spices and add vegetables to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fat: 20g
How Do You Store This Slow Cooker Bacon Garlic Pork Loin?
Let’s say you have leftovers (though I doubt it!). Allow the pork to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For freezing, slice the pork first for easier reheating.
Sides for Slow Cooker Bacon Garlic Pork Loin
Now, let’s explore some sides that work wonderfully with this pork dish.
1. Creamy Polenta: Smooth, buttery polenta can soak up the rich juices from the pork. If you haven’t tried making polenta before, don’t fret. It’s easier than you think and quite satisfying.
2. Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with garlic bread. It’s a classic. Use fresh baguettes, smear them with garlic butter, and toast them for an indulgent side to mop up those amazing juices.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a zingy vinaigrette can balance the heaviness of the pork. It offers a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat, providing that refreshing element.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Cooking shouldn’t feel limiting. Here are some substitutions you can consider:
1. Pork Loin Alternatives: If pork isn’t working for you, consider using chicken thighs or beef chuck roast. Both can soak up the flavors nicely, though the cooking times may vary.
2. Bacon Options: Maple turkey bacon or pancetta can work beautifully if you’re looking for a lighter or different flavor profile. Just check on the cooking times as they may differ.
3. Sweetener Swap: Brown sugar has its place, but honey or agave syrup can also add sweetness in a different way. Just be mindful of the quantities since they can vary.
4. Mustard Variations: If Dijon mustard isn’t in your pantry, spicy brown mustard or even yellow mustard can substitute in a pinch. It adds a similar but distinct flavor.
Slow Cooker Bacon Garlic Pork Loin
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut smoky bacon
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 cloves fresh garlic finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a tangy balance
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary optional, for a herby aroma
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
- 3 pounds boneless pork loin trimmed of extra fat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. Next, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and integrates the flavor throughout the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want that lovely browning without burning it. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet with some of the rendered bacon fat (or using vegetable oil), sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook it; you want it softly fragrant, not burnt.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- In your slow cooker, combine the bacon, sautéed garlic, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. This mixture is where the magic begins.
Step 5: Add the Pork Loin
- Carefully place the trimmed pork loin in the slow cooker. Spoon the bacon mixture over the top, ensuring the pork is well coated. This helps to lock in flavor while it cooks.
Step 6: Slow Cook
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it on high for 3-4 hours, but I recommend low for maximum tenderness. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the meat for extra flavor.
Notes
- Bacon Choice: Go for a thick-cut smoky bacon for better texture and flavor.
- Garlic Love: Fresh garlic is best. Save the jarred stuff for emergency situations.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the pork rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Leftovers: This dish stores well. It can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches or warmed up.
- Experiment: Feel free to adjust spices and add vegetables to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I cook this on high heat?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, setting your slow cooker to high will work. Keep an eye on it. Cooking time will typically be about 3-4 hours.
2. How do I know if the pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature for pork should reach at least 145°F (63°C). However, for best tenderness in slow cooking, going to 190°F (88°C) is ideal to break down collagen.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before and place it in the fridge. In the morning, simply throw it into the slow cooker and enjoy the fragrance filling your home when you come back.
4. How do leftovers taste?
Leftovers taste even better! The flavors intensify overnight. You can slice it for sandwiches or toss it into salads for a quick meal.
Conclusion
In summary, this slow cooker bacon garlic pork loin is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and satisfaction. It proves that home cooking can be straightforward yet deliver incredible flavors.
With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a dish that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also fuels beautiful conversations around the dinner table. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this delicious meal. You won’t regret it!
