Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork Loin

This succulent pork loin is slow-cooked to perfection in a sweet and savory pineapple glaze. Juicy, tender, and bursting with tropical flavor, it’s a low-effort dish that delivers high impact — perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs (900g–1.4kg) pork loin, trimmed of excess fat

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning)

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, with juice (reserve both chunks and juice)

• ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier twist)

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)

• Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Sear the Pork Loin

1. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil.

3. Add the pork loin and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step helps lock in flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:

• Pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)

• Brown sugar

• Soy sauce

• Apple cider vinegar

• Garlic

• Ginger (if using)

Step 3: Assemble in Slow Cooker

1. Place the seared pork loin in the slow cooker.

2. Pour the pineapple sauce mixture over the pork.

3. Scatter the pineapple chunks over and around the meat.

Step 4: Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours, or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and juicy.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

1. Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover with foil to rest.

2. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan.

3. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry.

4. Stir the slurry into the sauce and simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

️ To Serve

• Slice the pork loin into medallions.

• Spoon thickened pineapple sauce and chunks over the top.

• Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

• Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze in freezer-safe bags with sauce for up to 3 months.

• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth.

✅ Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the searing: It adds a rich caramelized flavor.

• Use fresh pineapple if preferred, but canned is quicker and adds great juice for the sauce.

• Make it spicy: Add red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the pineapple glaze.