Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin
A melt-in-your-mouth pork loin simmered in a sweet, tangy pineapple-soy glaze. This dish requires minimal prep and cooks itself—perfect for busy days, meal prep, or family dinners.
⭐ Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 2–3 lb pork loin
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (do NOT drain)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
🍍 Instructions
1. Make the Pineapple Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Pineapple juice from the can
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Black pepper
Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
2. Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Spread the sliced onion on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the pork loin on top of the onions.
- Pour the prepared pineapple sauce over the pork.
- Scatter the pineapple chunks around and on top of the pork.
3. Cook
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 4–5 hours
Cook until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
4. Optional: Thicken the Sauce
- Remove the cooked pork and let it rest 5–10 minutes.
- Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch + water slurry.
- Cook 2–3 minutes until thickened to a glaze.
5. Serve
Slice the pork or shred it into chunks. Spoon the glossy pineapple sauce over the top.
Serve with:
- Steamed rice
- Coconut rice
- Quinoa
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
💡 Tips & Variations
- Want it sweeter? Add 1–2 tbsp extra brown sugar.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or 1 tbsp sriracha.
- Extra tangy: Add 1–2 tbsp apple cider vinegar.
- Crispy edges: After cooking, broil pork slices for 3–5 minutes.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use pork tenderloin instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time by 1–2 hours (tenderloin cooks faster).
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and thickens more overnight.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but add 1/2 cup extra juice or broth.